
Class. 

Book 

CopiglitN ._ 



CflEXRIGHT DEFOSm 



PROGRESSIVE 
SPONDYLOTHERAPY 

1913 



A SUMMARY OF NEW 

CLINICO-PHYSIOLOGIC AND 

REFLEXOLOGIC DATA 

WITH AN APPENDIX 

ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PHYSICS OF THE VARIOUS 
FORMS OF FORCE 

BY 

ALBERT ABRAMS, A.M., M.D. 

(university of Heidelberg) 

F.R. M.S. 

HONORARY PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF 
SPONDYLOTHERAPY; CONSULTING PHYSICIAN TO THE MOUNT ZION 
AND FRENCH HOSPITALS, SAN FRANCISCO; FORMERLY PROFESSOR 
OF PATHOLOGY AND DIRECTOR OF THE MEDICAL CLINIC, 
COOPER MEDICAL COLLEGE (DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE, 
LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UNIVERSITY), SAN FRAN- 
CISCO; MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL 
ASSOCIATION 

REPRESENTING THE ADDITIONAL SUBJECT-MATTER 

INCLUDED IN THE FIFTH EDITION 

OF SPONDYLOTHERAPY 

(PHYSIO-THERAPY OF THE SPINE BASED ON A STUDY OF CLINICAL PHYSIOLOGY) 



PHILOPOLIS PRESS, SUITE 406, LINCOLN BUILDING 

SAN FRANCISCO 

1913 



T?1-3SS 

Si H 
*1 



COPYRIGHT, 1913 

BY 

ALBERT ABRAMS 



fe 






•CLA347192 



TO 

SIR JAMES BARR, M.D., LL.D., F.R.S.E., 

CONSULTING PHYSICIAN, THE ROYAL INFIRMARY, LIVERPOOL, AND 
PRESIDENT OF THE BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 

THIS VOLUME IS INSCRIBED 

IN RECOGNITION OF HIS FRIENDSHIP AND OF HIS DISTINGUISHED SERVICES 
IN THE ADVANCEMENT OF MEDICINE 



PREFACE 

THE first edition of Spondylotherapy was published in 1910 and 
since that time four editions of the work have been issued. 
To avoid the necessity of a new edition, which has become imperative, 
this volume is designed to substitute the latter. The subject-matter 
of the appendix is an attempt to further rationalize physiotherapy 
and to remove the stigma still associated in the minds of many with 
this almost empirical method of therapeutics. When Spondylotherapy 
was first published, many statements seemed incredible and only the 
cognoscenti could interpret its true significance. Spondylotherapy 
or renexotherapy, was equally an attempt to rationalize crude meth- 
ods practiced by the Japanese under the name Kuatsu, and by the 
Chinese as Tcha-Tchin. 

Commenting on the latter the Abbe Grosier, at the end of the 18th 
century observed, " Vefficacite de ce traitement, est prouvee par des 
guerisons sans nombre et qui semblent sumaturelles." 

The data in the appendix appear equally incredible but truth is 
established neither by convictions nor theorization. The man- 
euvers suggested by the author are simple and easily executed and 
judgment should be reserved until they have been tried. The term 
force in the appendix is employed in its popular sense. Atomic 
energy like matter, in accordance with the law of the Conservation of 
Energy, is indestructible and uncreatable and must be regarded as a 
separate entity. Energy before association with the position of one 
body in reference to another is potential in contrast with kinetic 
energy or the energy of motion. 

The fact that I have solicited physiology to contribute its share in 
clarifying some problems should occasion no surprise. 

The laws of physical science are universal and apply equally to 
living organisms and so-called inanimate things. 

This iatrophysical conception demonstrates the trend of unifying 
the various forms of force under one great principle. 

A. A. 
246 Powell St., 
San Francisco, Cal., 
April, 19 13. 



CONTENTS 

CHAPTER I. 

Page 
General Reflexo-Diagnosis ______! 

CHAPTER II. 

General Reflexo-Therapy - - - - - - - 36 

CHAPTER III. 

The Circulatory Apparatus - - - - - - 50 

CHAPTER IV. 

The Digestive Apparatus - - - - - - 80 

CHAPTER V. 

Miscellaneous Reflexes and Data - - - - - 100 

CHAPTER VI. 

Electronotherapy - - - - - - - -115 

CHAPTER VII. 

Magnetic Force - - _ ._ - - - -131 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Physics of the Magnetic Force - - - - - -138 

CHAPTER IX. 

Physiological Physics of the Magnetic Force - - - 142 

CHAPTER X. 

Deductions - - - - - - - - -173 

Glossary ________ 209 

Bibliography - - - - - - - -212 

Index - - - - - - - - -213 



PROGRESSIVE SPONDYLOTHERAPY* 



CHAPTER I. 

GENERAL REFLEXO-DIAGNOSIS. 

SCOPE OF SPONDYLOTHERAPY — REFLEXO-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTIONAL 

DIAGNOSIS — VISCERAL TONOMETRY SPONDYLOPRESSOR — VAGO- 

VISCERAL METHODS DIAGNOSIS OF INTUITIONAL ACTS BACKACHE 

AND VERTEBRAL TENDERNESS REFERRED PAIN DIAGNOSIS OF 

HYSTERIA. 

SCOPE OF SPONDYLOTHERAPY. 

My friend, Dr. H. Jaworski, of Paris, France, first sug- 
gested the name, " reflexotherapy " (636). He further 

Suggests ' ' REFLEXO- SPONDYLOTHERAPY. ' ' 

Dr. J. Madison Taylor, and Dr. Louis von Cotzhausen, 
protest against the employment of the word spondylotherapy 
contending that the designation is too limited in scope to do 
justice to the subject which embraces not only new methods 
of treatment but new methods of diagnosis. Dr. von Cotz- 
hausen, proposes the neologism, "reflexology." 

Spondylotherapy, may suggest exclusivism to the cap- 
tious critic and so would electrotherapy and hydrotherapy 
but time has removed this stigma from the devotees of the 
latter methods of practice. 

In the preface to the third edition of spondylotherapy 
and elsewhere in the same work (387), its purport has 

* Numbers in parentheses refer to the pages in the last edition of SPONDYLO- 
THERAPY where the subject has already been discussed. When the word ''page' 
precedes the number it refers to the present edition of progressive spondylotherapy. 

1 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

been fully expounded. The latter is no more suggestive of 
an exclusive method of practice than is electrotherapy but 
only emphasizes the importance of the spinal cord as the 
center for the discharge of the majority of reflex actions. 

Throughout many works on different subjects, the author 
has constantly referred to his vertebral reflexes but they 
were practically ignored until they were collated in his 

book, ' ' SPONDYLOTHERAPY. ' ' 

There still lingers the doctrinaire who confuses spondylo- 
therapy with osteopathy. With like astigmatic mentality, 
the orthopedist could be accounted an osteopath for the 
reason that he treats diseases of the backbone. 

Anent osteopathy, a kindly word should be said of some 
of the proselytes of this cult who are now recognizing certain 
errors in their early conception of disease. 

One of the fundamental principles of osteopathy was 
that diseases were caused by dislocations of the vertebrae 
which by exerting pressure on the spinal nerves induced 
derangements of functions. By pushing and pulling the 
vertebrae into place, the "lesions" could be corrected. 

Dr. J. Madison Taylor, has studied this subject from an 
unprejudiced viewpoint and quotes the highest authorities 
on anatomy to show that, except when long-standing or 
progressive morbid processes have been the cause (lateral 
curvature and tubercular disease), changes in the relation- 
ship of the vertebrae are practical impossibilities. 

This authority 1 observes: — "Relaxations of the lat- 
eral and posterior spinal ligaments are due to nutritive 
faults. There is produced often the appearance of dis- 
location, but these morphologic phenomena disappear on 
restoration of the tonus of the shrunken tissues, chiefly 
through mechanical stimulation. Attempts to 'replace' 
these so-called 'dislocated bones' and to relieve pressure on 

2 



Scope of Spondylotherapy 

nerves, — the creed of the osteopath, — sometimes result 
in benefit, not by accomplishing the object aimed at, but 
through the effects wrought upon the centers of vaso- 
tonus and lymph activities by mechanical or other stim- 
ulation. Where, as sometimes happens, undue force is 
used to 'pull or push' these tissues in place, harm is often 
wrought of which little is said, or to which other causes 
are assigned. Thus any agent which causes vaso- 
constriction in the tissues of the back contiguous to the 
spinal column will produce, conversely, dilatation of the 
vessels in the cord and of the organs and parts beyond 
the line of innervation. 

"Any agent which produces dilatation of the vessels 
supplying the tissues of the back will, by compensatory 
action, induce constriction in the blood-vessels of the 
cord and parts beyond. The significance of this is at 
once made plain, and its value, not only as a factor in 
diagnosis, but in treatment, manifest. 

u On inspecting the back of one who is, and has 
always been, perfectly sound, there will be seen (if cer- 
tain attitudes are assumed to bring them into prom- 
inence) the spines of the vertebrae in normal alignment,, 
distance apart, and degree of posterior projection. If 
there has been a history of long-continued or recurrent 
disturbances of the internal organs, these are frequently 
revealed by alterations in the tonus of the blood-vessels 
of those muscles and other tissues innervated by, or 
lying adjacent to, the governing segments of the cord 
from which the organs at fault are reflexly controlled 
through their vasomotor connections. The change of 
form exhibited is an atrophy of some, infiltration and 
thickening of others, and if long continued, asymmetries 
of the vertebrae, the spines apparently pointing in dif- 
ferent directions. If the lesions have become chronic, the 
spines are found separated owing to the relaxation of the 
posterior ligaments, until between two or more marked 
depressions appear, or several are depressed below the 
normal line of projection. This disarrangement of the 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

vertebrae is more apparent than real, the asymmetries 
being due to loss of tone and relaxation in the support- 
ing ligaments, and this disappears under appropriate 
treatment." 

Dr. Earle Scanland Willard, one of the most eminent 
authorities on the subject of osteopathy urges academic 
revision of the principles of osteopathy based on most careful 
research work. He observes: — 2a It seems that the explana- 
tion of the lesion rests upon something more than mere 
pressure of mal-adjusted tissue upon nerve-fiber or vascular 
channel; this at best can be only part of the physiological 
disturbance of the muscular, fascial, ligamentous, and 
osseous tissues which causes interference with the normal 
afferent influence to the spinal cord centers, and this is more 
or less permanently maintained by the lack of freedom of the 
joint movements. 

Neither macroscopic nor microscopic findings in the tissues 
passing through the spinal foramen warrant the assumption 
that the osteopathic lesion is the result of mechanical pressure 
in this region." 

Hippocrates must have anticipated sectarian practice 
with relation to the spine. I find in his chapter on "Articu- 
lations" that, after enjoining the physician to know the 
spine as requisite in many diseases, he inveighs against the 
practice of attributing cure to the reduction of dislocated 
vertebrae thus profiting by the ignorance of others. Curva- 
ture of the spine, he continues, occurs even in health from 
natural conformation, from habit, old age and from pains. 

The osteopaths have recently protested against what 
they regard as an encroachment on their domain and claim 
that I have purloined their ideas. This abuse is couched in 
less elegant though in more cogent phraseology. I have 
shown that the primal conception of this cult has been dis- 



Reflexo- Diagnosis 

credited by its leaders. If the vertebral column and spinal 
cord have been patented then my researches must be re- 
garded as an infringement and a caveat emptor should be 
issued. I fear however, that my detractors are in the same 
position as the dramatist whose manuscript was rejected. 
Later, he witnessed a play in which " stage- thunder " was 
also employed and excitedly cried, "They've stolen my 
thunder." 

REFLEXO-DIAGNOSIS. 

Many reflex acts are so perfectly coordinated that one is 
constrained to believe that, in the spinal cord there exists a 
subsidiary brain. 

Man is practically an automaton and many of the phe- 
nomena of vegetative life, respiration, circulation, nutrition, 
etc., are produced in the subconscious state and without 
voluntary effort. Eating, drinking, walking, in short, the 
essential acts of life, are but a mass of habits, and eventually 
conform to the laws of habit. Their repetition eventuates 
in reflex actions. It is wise that this is so, otherwise the 
mind would be so occupied that acts requiring volitional 
deliberation could not be executed. Instinct is an adaptive 
impulse in the absence of intelligence, yet instinct is made 
up of reflex acts purely automatic and without the domain 
of the mind. 

The bee constructs a perfect cell without a mathematical 
education, and birds migrate without chart or compass. 

All diseases are manifested by a direct and indirect 
symptomatology; the latter embrace the reflex symptoms. 
There are individuals who are reflexophilic, i. e., they have 
exaggerated reflexes. 

If the life of an animal is essentially a series of reflex 
actions and pathology is nought else but the physiology of 

5 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

the sick, then the reflexes must assume primary importance 
in diagnosis. In visceral diseases, symptoms are often 
referred to the somatic area (411). 

In other instances, the reflexes are essentially compensa- 
tory or for purposes of defense (191). 

FUNCTIONAL DIAGNOSIS. 

Montaigne has observed, "Even as Nature makes us to 
see that many dead things have yet certain secret relations 
to life." The time was, when the chief goal of the pathologist 
was to discover some morbid change for every disease but 
the study of the living has supplanted the study of the dead 
and the consequence is, the passing of morbid anatomy. 

We no longer strive to make the clinical correspond with 
the anatomical findings and picture in our minds the path- 
ologic conditions prevailing in disease. 

Our chief aim is to make a junctional diagnosis which 
takes cognizance of anomalies in the physiologic functions 
of the viscera. Physiologic fluctuations may be resident in 
an organ even before a pathologico-anatomic substratum is 
assumed to exist. The recent advances made in pathology 
and therapeutics have been mainly along the lines of func- 
tional diagnosis. 

VISCERAL TONOMETRY. 

I believe that, in my work on "Diagnostic-Therapeutics" 
the first systematic attempt was made to study the viscera 
with reference to their functional sufficiency (215). Since 
then, by aid of a simple apparatus which will be described 
later, coupled with a recognition of the visceral reflexes, it 
is now possible to gauge the capacity of an organ to execute 
its functions, i. e., to measure its visceral tone. The utter 
helplessness of the physician to achieve such results by con- 

6 . 



Visceral Tonometry 

ventional methods only emphasizes the fact that conjecture 
often plays a predominant role in medical practice. Take 
so plebeian an affection as constipation and I venture to say 
that, heretofore it was impossible to recognize it objectively. 

The capacity of an organ to execute its functions is de- 
termined by the tone of its musculature (409 and 451). 

The visceral muscle. — This is usually in the form of 
a membrane or sheet but in certain situations (uterus, 
pylorus) , it is thick and well developed. Unlike the skeletal, 
the visceral muscle receives its stimuli not directly but indi- 
rectly through the intermediation of ganglion cells. The 
visceral musculature shows elasticity, tonicity, irritability 
and conductivity. There is a distinct periodicity in the 
movements of visceral muscle characterized by contraction 
and relaxation of the muscle-fibers. 

If the latter are stimulated by the induced or constant 
current, the contraction takes place more rapidly than the 
relaxation, the two phases occupying 5 and 35 seconds 
respectively with a latent period of 0.25 second. In our 
treatment notably by aid of electricity the foregoing facts 
are important. The visceral musculature is plain or invol- 
untary and does not respond to stimulation like voluntary 
muscle. Strong currents (notably the sinusoidal current) 
are necessary and the rate of stimulation to produce a tetanic 
contraction is slower than for cross-striped muscle. The 
best effects are achieved by a stimulus acting every five 
seconds. The slow, long-waved sinusoidal current is best 
to secure such effects. 

The visceral reflexes (7, et seq). — These organic re- 
flexes are chiefly concerned with involuntary non-striated 
muscles which are dominated by the sympathetic nervous 
system and are incapable of direct voluntary restraint. In 
the norm, the visceral reflexes do not implicate conscious- 

7 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

ness. In visceral pain (415) or, when the reflex act stimu- 
lates a cerebro-spinal sensory nerve, consciousness may be 
reached. The latter is also evoked when voluntary muscles 
must supplement an organic reflex. Defecation is involun- 
tary respecting intestinal movements but in stimulation of 
the rectal mucosa, the perineal muscles are brought into 
action and the reflex becomes conscious and voluntary. 

The scrotal reflex is a typical sympathetic motor phenom- 
enon and, like the other organic motor reflexes, the con- 
traction is slow and worm-like and not brisk like the reflexes 
of striated muscle. 

In addition to the sympathetic system described else- 
where (427, 450), there are also microscopic ganglia {micro- 
sympathetic ganglia), demonstrable by the microscope and 
located below the union of the anterior and posterior nerve- 
roots of the spinal nerves. The function of the latter is 
unknown. 

Maintenance of visceral tone. — -Visceral tone is prac- 
tically a reflex due to a constant flow of impulses from an 
organ along sensory paths and the translation of such im- 
pulses into tonic discharges from the motor neurons in the 
cord. The foregoing represents the neurogenic tonus. It 
has been shown elsewhere (451), that, the tonus of the 
sympathetic fibers is maintained by the secretion of adren- 
alin but that a similar internal secretion is yet to be demon- 
strated for maintaining the tonus of the autonomic fibers 
which is represented by the extended vagus (450). 

Meltzer and Cannon, have shown that stimulation of the 
peripheral end of the splanchnic augments the secretion of 
adrenalin which is indicated by dilatation of the pupil. The 
latter is hardly a sufficient criterion for adrenalin action. 

In studying the action of adrenalin on the viscera by 



Spondylopressor 

hypodermatic injections of adrenalin in the human, the fol- 
lowing were noted: 

i Dilatation of the pupil (452, 522). 

2. Evanescent increase of blood-pressure. 

3. Constriction of the majority of blood-vessels. 
Dilatation of aneurysms (457) and the pulmonary 

blood-vessels (607). 

4. Contraction of the lungs (314, 456). 

5. Dilatation of the stomach (590). 

This action of adrenalin may be duplicated in the human 
by stimulation of the splanchnic nerves (430, 434). The 
best effects are achieved by limiting the stimulation from 
the 4th, to the 8th dorsal spines. 

A like effect may be noted by stimulation of the phrenic 
nerve at its exit (549). Here, I have assumed is another 
source of stimulating the secretion of the suprarenal glands : 
the latter being supplied by thephrenico-abdominalbranches. 
The pancreas has probably an inhibitory influence on the 
secretion of adrenalin (452). In accordance with this theory 
aided by my method of duodenal intubation (page 85), I 
determined that, one may augment the pancreatic secre- 
tion by application of a stimulus to the 10th dorsal spine 
and that, during and for some time after, the tonicity of 
the sympathetic is reduced. 

If dilatation of the splanchnic vessels is accepted as a 
criterion of an effect opposed to splanchnic stimulation, its 
effect can be achieved by the method cited on page 55. 
An overproduction of epinephrin is responsible for many 
symptoms notably, hypertension and glycosuria. 

SPONDYLOPRESSOR. 

Pressure at definite paravertebral areas will evoke specilic 
visceral reflexes (169). Practically all the viscera innervated 

9 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

by the vagus (448) may be brought to contraction by appli- 
cation of the stimulus to the 7th cervical spine (467). 

The vagus includes those roots formerly specified as 
the "bulbar part of the spinal accessory." The latter is 
limited to the spinal part of the accessorius and is a 
continuation of the vagus nucleus in the medulla. 

It has been suggested (467), to make pressure for one 
minute. Mature experience has shown that the pressure 

should not exceed one-half minute, otherwise the reflex is 
exhausted. 

A curious physiologic phenomenon has been noted 
with reference to the exhaustion of neurogenic tonus at 
the 7th cervical spine and elsewhere. One may stim- 
ulate the vagus renexly from a number of situations 
(229). 

As a paradigm, select the stomach reflex of contrac- 
tion (316) . Within a few seconds after pressure is made 
with the radicular-pressor (649), at the 7th cervical 
spine, the tympanitic area of the stomach yields a 
dullness but, if the pressure exceeds one-half minute, the 
dullness is again supplanted by tympanicity because the 
reflex is exhausted. When pressure at the 7th cervical 
spine will no longer elicit the reflex, pressure in an inter- 
costal space will again evoke the reflex. The deduction 
is evident; only the afferent pathsl(not the vagus itself) 
were exhausted. This phenomenon suggests the ra- 
tionale of many therapeutic procedures and demon- 
strates how, one may utilize other afferent paths in the 
excitation of centers which cannot be reached by paths al- 
ready eneroated. 

Visceral tonometry by aid of the spondylopressor 
(Fig. 1) gauges neurogenic tonus, myogenic tonus or both. 
With reference to the heart, if the neurogenic tonus is nor- 
mal, pressure at the 7 th cervical spine will not inhibit the 
pulse even though the pressure registers 10 kilograms. 

10 



S p 



n 



d y I o p re 



If, however, vagus tone is diminished as in exophthalmic 
goitre (page 74,) one cannot feel the pulse (during the time 
of pressure) when the pressure has attained 3 or 5 kilograms. 
In the latter affection however, the myocardium is efficient 
as a rule, therefore recourse must be had to another method 
for determining the sufficiency of the latter. Estimate the 
pressure in kilograms necessary to increase precordial dull- 
ness (471). As a rule, a pressure of 5 kilograms will aug- 
ment the latter whereas in myocardial insufficiency, the full 
pressure of 10 kilograms fails to modify the percussion note. 




Fig. 1. — Spondylopressor with reflexometric attachment. A, attachment 
for use as an algesispondylometer; B, attachment for use as an algesimeter 
elsewhere in the body; C, attachment for gauging the vigor of the spinal and 
abdominal muscles. 

Atonic constipation (328) is more frequent than the 
spastic variety. If pressure is made at the 2nd lumbar spine 
the tympanitic intestines become dull if there is no consti- 
pation whereas in the presence of the latter, the full 10 
kilograms of pressure will cause no change in the percussion 
sound.* 



*For further details concerning the employment of the spondylopressor in the 
diagnosis of visceral reflexes, vide, pages 34 and 74. 



11 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

A minimum pressure of 4 kilograms at the 7th cervical 
spine is necessary to cause a descent of the normal or ortho- 
tonic lung. In the hypertonic lung {asthma), the lower 
lung-border descends with a pressure of 1 kilogram. 

Aside from the employment of the foregoing apparatus 
as a reilexometer, the author has employed it for the follow- 
ing purposes : 

1. As an algesimeter, to measure the reaction to pain 
by kilograms of pressure. The attachment (A) is em- 
ployed to measure vertebral points of tenderness whereas 
the disk (B) is used for measuring pain elsewhere. One 
may also utilize this apparatus for determining the progress 
of a malady by the response to pain by diminished or in- 
creased kilograms of pressure. 

2. As a baresthesiometer. Afferent peripheral impulses 
are conducted along distinct classes of nerve-fibers and 
common sensation is made up of three kinds of sensibility : 

a. Deep sensibility recognizes deep pressure which, if 
excessive causes "pressure-pain." This sensibility takes 
cognizance of sensations from muscles, joints and the vibra- 
tion sense (66) . These sensory impulses are not annihilated 
by division of the sensory cutaneous nerves. 

b. Protopathic sensibility recognizes painful cutaneous 
stimuli (pin-pricks) and extreme degrees of heat and cold. 

c. Epicritic sensibility responds to light touches (cot 
ton- wool) and finer grades of temperature. 

The foregoing differences are applicable only to the 
peripheral nerves (extra-spinal portion of the sensory paths) . 

In peripheral neuritis, the deep hyperalgesia and cutan- 
eous anesthesia (cotton-wool touch unperceived) is diag- 
nostic in contrast to the condition prevailing in locomotor 
ataxia, viz., association of superficial and deep analgesia. 

Peripheral sensory impulses pass to the spinal-root 

12 



V a g o - Visceral Methods 

ganglia then through the posterior roots to the cord. In the 
latter, there is no separation of the deep and superficial 
pain-fibers hence in certain diseases of the spinal cord, per- 
ception of pain as a whole is annihilated and the pain of a 
pin-prick or deep pressure is equally abolished. 

3. For testing rigidity of the muscles of the back or 
elsewhere. Here, the small ring (C) rests below attach- 
ment. The pressure in kilograms necessary for the surface 
of the ring to attain the surface of the skin indicates the 
rigidity. 




A B C 

Fig. 2. — Skiagrams of an aneurysm treated by Dr. George Jarvis of 
Philadelphia. Also show the areas of heart and aneurysm, as determined by 
percussion with corroboration of the latter by the X-ray findings. A, skia- 
gram before concussion of the 7th cervical spine; B, diminished area after 
concussion; C. from same patient symptomatically cured after treatment for 
onelmonth. 



4. For testing the tone of the abdominal muscles in 
splanchnic neurasthenia (427). Fix instrument on abdo- 
minal region at a pressure of 4 kilograms and observe how 
many more kilograms of pressure may be recorded when 
the patient contracts the abdominal muscles. 



13 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



VAGO-VISCERAL METHODS. 

The inaccuracy of delimiting the viscera by topographic 
percussion by the conventional methods (359) suggests the 
necessity of improved methods in physical diagnosis. The 
viscera are dominated by the vagus and when the tone of 
the latter is augmented topographic percussion is facilitated. 
The method advocated by the author is the vago-visceral 
method (321). Fig. 2, illustrates the accuracy of the 
latter maneuver. The aneurysm and heart were pri- 
marily outlined by Dr. Geo. Jarvis, of Philadelphia, and the 
results of percussion were corroborated radiographically. 

Vago-visceral inspection. — In thin subjects and 
notably in children, one may observe when intermittent 
pressure is made with the spondylopressor (Fig. 1) at the 
end of forced expiration during suspended breathing, the 
borders of the heart (page 50), the lower border of the 
stomach and lower border of the liver (in the anterior axillary 
and parasternal lines). Each time pressure is made by an 
assistant the stomach or liver is manifested by a bulging or 
shadow. As a rule, in inspecting the stomach (the patient 
facing a window), it is best to stand to the left of the patient 
and look downward. To inspect the liver, look downward 
from the left side. Painting the skin with a saturated alco- 
holic solution of gamboge will accentuate the shadows but 
not the bulging. 

The diaphragm reflex (550), can be seen in thin sub- 
jects in the erect posture (side of patient toward window 
and observer with back to light) when intermittent 
pressure is made between the 2nd and 3rd cervical spines. 
During inspection patient must suspend breathing. 
The foregoing methods are conducted with the patient 
standing. 

14 



Vago-Visceral Palpation 

Vago-visceral palpation of the heart. — If, during 
the time an assistant makes intermittent pressure at the 7th 
cervical spine with the spondylopressor and one follows an 
intercostal space toward the borders of the heart, the latter 
give to the palpating ringer a sensation not unlike that 
which is felt when the finger is placed on the masseter muscle 
during mastication. When proficiency is acquired, it is 
surprising how effectually one may delimit the organ. 

This maneuver acquaints us with the condition of the 
myocardium (471) which, if efficient gives a distinct impact 
to the finger. Vago-visceral inspection of the heart is 
described on page 50. 

DIAGNOSIS OF INTUITIONAL ACTS. 

An interesting brochure should be dedicated to this 
fascinating subject. Space forbids extensive discussion and 
it is merely introduced to awaken the interest of others. 

Every emotion is simultaneously an instinct, and every 
physical reaction to an emotion is the natural expression of 
protection. Instinct has already been discussed on page 5. 

In asthenopia, eyestrain is often intuitively relieved by 
stretching the neck (which increases vagus-tone) (469), by 
forcible closure of the eyelids or by rubbing the eyes. Pres- 
sure on the eye will augment vagus- tone (443). 

In cardiac neuroses, notably tachycardia, patients in- 
stinctively execute certain maneuvers (229). 

When the neck of the prize-fighter is vigorously rubbed, 
it augments the tone of the heart through the vagus. A 
veritable heart-reflex may be elicited by friction in the 
region of the 7th cervical spine. 

To relieve an overloaded stomach the Bohemian peas- 
antry place the knee against the back of a patient seated 
upon a stool and make counterpressure with the hands grasp- 

15 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

the neck. The knee-pressure is made in the region of the 
5th dorsal spine which opens the pylorus (page 82). 

Some prize-fighters instinctively employ the liver-blow 
to disable their opponents. When such a blow is struck 
corresponding to the lower border of the liver in the para- 
sternal line, a paralysis of the splanchnic nerve ensues and 
there is an engorgement of the splanchnic blood-vessels. 

The cognates of instinct are becoming rapidly atrophied 
from disuse and for this reason the intuition of animals is 
superior to that of man. 

In making pancreatic fistulse in dogs, the after-treatment 
is handicapped by the tryptic digestion of the skin around 
the wound. One dog suffering in this way kept on tearing 
down mortar from the wall to lie upon and thus relieve the 
condition. This intuitional act on the part of the dog 
suggests a remedy in the treatment of such fistulae. Many 
lessons may be derived from the study of animals. 

We have always known that the secretion of saliva is a 
reflex act but only recently do we know that the secretion 
of gastric juice is effected through afferent impulses from the 
senses (smell, sight, taste) passing reflexly down the path of 
the vagus. What has been revealed in animals respecting 
the secretion of gastric juice may be utilized in practice. 
Thus, careful investigations have convinced me that, when 
stimulation of the vagus is executed (7th cervical spine), 
gastric juice is increased and diminished, when the vagus is 
depressed (472). Section of the vagi in animals prevents and 
their stimulation augments the flow of gastric juice after an 
interval of several minutes. Empirical knowledge has-been 
substituted by scientific facts by animal observations. 
Food served in an inviting way stimulates the gastric juice 
and its quantity is determined by the character of the in- 
gested food. 

16 



Backache and Vertebral Tenderness 

A meat diet provokes the most powerful and a milk diet, 
the weakest secretion. Many vaunted remedies like alco- 
holic preparations, acids, alkalies and bitters have no greater 
effect when swallowed in exciting the flow of gastric juice 
than has water, in fact, in many instances they inhibit the 
flow. They act renexly in increasing the juice by their taste 
and A. Randle Short, suggests that these time-honored 
remedies should be used as a mouth-wash, without swal- 
lowing them. 

BACKACHE AND VERTEBRAL TENDERNESS. 

Despite the fact that, this subject has already been dis- 
cussed (71, 83, 422), its importance in diagnosis demands 
additional data. 

Tenderness in the spine is practically always associated 
with localized or more diffused rigidity and must be re- 
garded as a protective reflex to give rest to the implicated 
part. 

The tissues involved may be: 

1. Skin and subcutaneous tissues (wounds, abscess); 

2. Muscles, fasciae or nerves (gout, rheumatism, neu- 
ralgia, traumatism); 

3. Vertebrae (128, 137), vertebral joints (osteo-arthr - 
tis) and sacro-iliac joint; 

4. Cord and meninges and spinal nerve-roots. 
Visceral diseases and backache also demand considera- 
tion. 

Pain with tenderness on pressure emphasizes the presence 
of local disease. In referred pain (56), firm pressure evokes 
less pain than a light touch (showing skin-hyperesthesia) . 

Reaction of the vertebrae to pain may be tested by 
striking the spinous processes with a percussion-hammer. 

17 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Reaction of the vertebral- joints may be determined by 
executing certain movements (41). 

In vertebral tuberculosis, tenderness is associated with 
deformity and rigidity of the affected part and the rigidity 
is accentuated by movements. The pain is aggravated when 
the shoulders or legs are jarred or when the cathode of a 
Galvanic current or a hot sponge approaches the deformity. 

In rickets (143), there is no decided spinal tenderness and 
the spinal curvature evanesces when the child is suspended 
by the head or arms. 

Secondary malignant growths often implicate the verte- 
brae. 

The Roentgen rays are often imperative in diagnosis but 
it is in the interpretation of the skiagrams that the greatest 
skill is displayed. 

We shall now consider briefly the tissues involved in 
backache. 

1 . Skin. — Reference has been made to cutaneous hyper- 
esthesia which is common in the rachialgia of neurasthenic 
and hysterical subjects (70). Unlike the pain in lumbago 
which is diffused laterally, in rachialgia the pain spreads 
upward in the line of the spine. The pain develops gradually 
and is influenced by various maneuvers (70). The pains 
from which the patient suffers may be reproduced by pres- 
sure over the sensitive area. Deformity is absent and mobil- 
ity is not compromised. When the eyes of the patient are 
closed, localization of pain and response of tenderness to 
varying degrees of pressure with the spondylopressor (page 
9) is characteristic. 

Many neurasthenics revel in their valetudinarianism and 
though desirous of counsel do not take it. Instruct such 
patients to take a dose of potassium iodid or other drug 
(which can be detected in the urine) during a paroxysm of 

18 



Muscles, Fasciae and Nerves 

pain and on the same day determine its presence in the 
urine. 

In hysteria, spinal points of tenderness (like peripheral 
points) are painful to the slightest touch, whereas deep 
pressure if the patient is diverted may be painless. Such 
pressure may excite (hysterogenic areas) or inhibit (hystero- 
genic areas) an hysterical attack. 

2. Muscles, fasciae and nerves. — The sole supports 
in maintaining the spine erect are the muscles of the back 
and trunk without which support the spine would collapse. 
The region between the 9th dorsal and 3rd lumbar verte- 
brae is the weakest part of the spine. Sprains of the column 
never assume any magnitude owing to the compact forma- 
tion of the spine and a force necessary to lacerate the liga- 
ments would result in fracture and dislocation of the verte- 
brae. The latter condition without a fracture is extremely 
rare. Sprains are most frequent in regions enjoying the 
greatest mobility (cervical and lumbar) whereas fractures 
occur in less mobile areas of the spine. 

There is perhaps no disease in our nosology more fre- 
quently abused than "rheumatism." 

Even lumbago (84, 92) is most often a lumbo-abdominal 
neuralgia and freezing over the vertebral exits of the im- 
plicated spinal nerves will at once arrest the pain. 

Lumbago is bilateral and its diagnosis in cases of some 
duration should not be made until the nervous system is 
tested insomuch as it may be essentially a symptomatic 
condition. Lumbago may be associated with sciatica but 
more often it is a simultaneous implication of the spinal 
nerves. 

Lumbago in a woman demands an examination of the 
pelvic viscera, and of the rectum in both sexes. 

In a number of patients complaining of backache, I have 

19 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

found at the insertion of the gluteus maximus large movable 
nodules suggesting lymph-glands although anatomists do 
not record their location in this region. Lymphatic drain- 
age from the lower part of the back is through the inguinal 
glands (about Poupart's ligament). 

3. Vertebrae, vertebral joints and sacroiliac 
joint. — The vertebrae may be painful from traumatism, 
erosion by an aneurysm, tuberculosis, malignant disease 
infections (gonorrhea, pyemia) and spondylitis. 

The role played by uric acid in muscular and articular 
pains (158) should be decided in several days by the use of 
atophan which facilitates the elimination of uric acid from the 
organism in all gouty and rheumatic affections. Doses of 2 
to 3 grams are said to eliminate within 24 hours, double and 
treble the amount of uric acid and occurs independently of 
the fact whether purin or purin-free food is taken. The 
spleen is a well-known reservoir of uric acid and after concus- 
sion to elicit the spleen reflex of contraction, one can increase 
the output of uric acid in the urine. 

One may estimate the excretion before and after treat- 
ment by Gubler's method. Stratify urine upon a layer of 
nitric acid (volume of former to latter as 3 '.2). At the line of 
junction of the two fluids a cloudy ring of uric acid will 
separate out in 5 minutes or less if uric acid is increased but 
if diminished, it will not appear until later. Phospho- 
tungstic acid solution is a delicate test for uric acid in the 
blood. 3 

The movements of the spine are chiefly due to the 23 
intervertebral cartilages which constitute nearly one-fourth 
of the entire spine. 

No examination of the back is complete without deter- 
mining the mobility of the spine. Thus, when the back is 
bent forward, the lumbar spines separate and if the distance 

20 



Vertebrae and V e r t e b r a I Joints 

in the erect posture between the ist lumbar and ist sacral 
spine is 10 cm., when the back is bent forward it is 15 cm. 

Osteo-arthritis (105,401) is an affection frequently over- 
looked notwithstanding its frequency. 

Some contend that rheumatoid arthritis is a disease 
distinct from osteo-arthritis. In the former, the synovial 
membranes and periarticular tissues are affected and in the 
latter, the cartilage and bone. Others hold that both are 
varying forms of the same disease. 

Radiographs are valuable in diagnosis. Hypertrophy 
and overgrowth of bone are noted especially in the spine. 




Fig. 3. — The Stretcher of Cropp, with patient in the prone posture. 



The cartilage is eroded, disappears, or is replaced by 
fibrous tissue or bone, notably at the edge. The over- 
growth of bone corresponds to the small hard knobs at the 
sides of the distal phalanges known as Heberden's nodes. 

Osteo-arthritis is often the cause of many intractable 
spinal neuralgias, torticollis, lumbago and sciatica. 

The pains of this affection are more frequently caused by 
a neuritis than a neuralgia due either to an extension of the 
inflammation to the nerve or by pressure on the latter by 
the overgrowth of bone. Here, suspension (478) gives at 
least temporary relief. 

A convenient and excellent substitute for suspension is 
"The Stretcher" (Fig. 3) devised by David Bertram Cropp. 

21 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

With this apparatus traction can be made in the prone or 
recumbent posture. 

Pain in the sacral region (sacralgia) is frequently caused 
by relaxation of the sacro-iliac joints (in). In the norm, 
motion in these joints is scarcely perceptible and any consid- 
erable motion is abnormal. Motion may be tested with the 
patient in the prone posture with the straight-leg raising 
test which tilts the pelvis forward or_backward upon the 
sacrum. 

Motion is also determined by having the subject support 
the body alternately on one and then the other leg. The 
pains are not strictly local but often diffused owing to the 
relation of the joint to the lumbo-sacral cord. From pres- 
sure on the obturator nerve, the pains may be referred to the 
hip or knee (supplied by same nerve) . 

While coccygodynia (95), is in the majority of instances 
a neurosis due as I believe to some anomaly of Luschka's 
gland (in front of the tip of the coccyx), it may also be 
caused by some disease of the uterus and adnexa which drag 
on the broad ligaments with drain on the coccygeal gland 
(sacral portion of the gangliated cord). 

Faulty posture (186) is also responsible for pains. Any 
deviation from a well-balanced position strains the muscles 
and ligaments and alters the relationship of the viscera. 
Cure can only be effected by exercises and the use of proper 
shoes and corsets. An effective corset may also correct the 
abdominal ptosis. In connection with faulty posture, there 
is sacro-iliac strain and enfeeblement of the long plantar 
arches. 

The outlines of the abdomen and back may be easily 
determined and preserved for reference by permitting light 
to fall on a large piece of ground-glass in such a way that a 
silhouette of the body-contour can be drawn with chalk and 

22 



Fig. 4. — Normal or neutral type of posture. Distinguishing features are: 
(1) Line of gravity of body passes through important pivotal points; (2) the 
pelvis is balanced in equilibrium on the heads of the thigh bones; (3) this 
relation of important pivotal points with the line of gravity and this balance 
of the pelvis prevents muscle and ligament strains, and (4) the rear perpen- 
dicular touches the middle back and the buttocks. 

(After Dickinson and Truslow). 

23 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

then transferred to paper. This method is the one I employ 
in tracing a struma (page 73). In the norm, the posterior 
perpendicular line touches the buttocks and the middle back 
(Fig. 4) and the abdomen does not protrude beyond a 
perpendicular line drawn upwards from the anterior surface 
of the thighs. 

4. Cord, meninges and spinal nerve-roots. — In 
cord-lesions, analgesia includes deep as well as superficial 
pain whereas in a peripheral nerve-lesion, superficial may be 
accompanied with deep hyperalgesia (page 12). In cord- 
lesions, if there is any loss to thermal stimuli, all degrees of 
heat and cold will be lost. Again, if the lesion implicates 
the posterior columns, there may be a loss of the sense of 
passive position and movement without loss of tactile, pain- 
ful or thermal stimuli. 

In cord and nerve-root lesions, the distribution of sen- 
sory disturbances is quite different than in implication of 
the peripheral nerves. 

A zone of hyperesthesia may be found just above the 
area of anesthesia, in growths of the spinal meninges, spinal 
caries and herpes zoster due to pressure or irritation of the 
posterior root-fibers. According to the theory of diaschisis, 
only a few symptoms are the result of the lesion itself, the 
balance are due to diaschisis, i. e., functional shock-like 
inhibition of uninjured distant areas produced by the 
dynamic influences of a lesion anatomically connected with 
such areas. The symptoms due to diaschisis can disappear 
and are therefore in principle temporary. 

The spinal cord only extends to the 2nd lumbar vertebra. 
Lesions of the lower part of the cord may implicate the 
cauda equina (lumbar, sacral and coccygeal nerve-roots) or 
the conus medullar is (that part of cord below 3rd sacral 
segment) . 

24 



Referred Pain in VHsceral Disease 

In the diagnosis of the foregoing consult the table of 
localization of the functions in the segments of the spinal 
cord (32 et seq.). 

REFERRED PAIN IN VISCERAL DISEASE. 

This subject has been discussed (74). 
Recent investigations 4 have modified our conception of 
visceral pain (415) with special reference to the peritoneum. 

Franke, shows that the autonomic system (411) of 
the abdominal organs is derived from the central nervous 
system in the mid-brain, the medulla, the dorsal cord, 
and the upper part of the lumbar cord. He divides the 
system into four parts: (1) The mid-brain autonome, 
represented by the third cranial nerve ; (2) The bulbar 
autonome, the seventh, ninth, and tenth cranial nerves; 
(3) The sympathetic, and (4) the sacral autonomes. 
Each fiber is provided between the spinal cord and its 
peripheral end with one ganglion cell. They only 
possess a centrifugal conduction power, and when the 
organs supplied contain sensory nerves the latter are 
derived from the cerebro-spinal system and have no 
connection with the autonomic system. The abdominal 
organs are innervated by the vagus, the sacral autonome 
and the sympathetic. Under ordinary conditions the 
abdominal organs do not reveal the least sensation, but 
under certain circumstances they may be the seat of 
severe pain, which, according to Frohlich and Meyer, 
is due to the stimulation of ordinary spinal nerves 
issuing from the posterior spinal roots. The vagus, the 
splanchnics, and the hypogastric nerves are free from 
any sensory fibers. Approaching the subject from the 
experimental side, he finds that some difficulty is expe- 
rienced when utilizing animals for the purpose. Local 
anaesthetics have to be avoided, as they induce a 
general insensitiveness, and it is obvious that cold air 
produces a loss of sensibility in regard to the abdominal 

25 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

organs. He, however, came to the conclusion from the 
reliable evidence available, that mechanical stimuli to 
the intestines produce pain in the lower animals, but not 
when applied to the liver, spleen, or pancreas. Dogs 
are more suscepible than cats or rabbits. It appears, 
further, that the stomach of these animals is insensitive, 
but tying of vessels in connection with the organ is 
associated with pain. Turning to the human subject, 
the experience of local anaesthetics permits of a number 
of deductions. The parietal peritoneum is extremely 
sensitive, and has the power of localization to some 
extent. The liver is absolutely insensitive to mechanical 
stimuli, which explains the painlessness of hepatic 
affections until the process involves the surface, and thus 
the peritoneal covering. He could not find any records 
with regard to the sensibility of the human spleen or 
pancreas. The esophagus possesses sensation for pain, 
warmth, cold, and for pressure. This sensibility 
decreases downwards. Further, he had no hesitation 
in stating that pain is felt in the mesentery, right up to 
the intestine. He discusses at some length the question 
whether the intestine is sensitive or not, and comes 
finally to the conclusion that normally the gastro- 
intestinal canal is insensitive, in contrast to the case of 
animals. He shows that the pain of supposed hyper- 
acidity of the stomach is in reality due to a gastric 
ulcer. He follows this up with an analytical discussion 
of the pain of colic, etc., and referred this pain to pulling 
on the mesentery, giving a detailed account of the mode 
of production. He states that the gall bladder is wholly 
insensitive to mechanical stimuli, but that the pain asso- 
ciated with biliary colic, etc., is due to the pulling on the 
nerves in the neck of the bladder; this is supported by 
the fact that ligature of the cystic artery and the neck 
of the gall bladder are painful procedures. The same is 
true of the kidneys. The urinary bladder is sensitive, 
especially in the trigone, and the floor is certainly 
sensitive to heat. 

26 



Referred Pain in Visceral Disease 

It is often difficult to say whether an area of vertebral 
tenderness (71) is due to a neuralgia of the spinal nerves or to 
visceral disease. One must of course exclude all other 
factors in the production of pain and remember that tender- 
ness in the back may implicate the skin, muscles, joints, 
bones, meninges or cord. 

In vertebral tenderness of visceral origin the following 
data are available in diagnosis: 

a. An electric current (68) or persistent friction of the 
skin over the tender area causes a red spot to appear which 
is more persistent than in the surrounding area. 

b. Absence of typical points douloureux (185). 

c. Accentuation of vertebral tenderness by manip- 
ulation of the suspected viscus (75). 

d. Elicitation of dermatomes (58). 

e. Segmental-analgesia of the viscera (376). 

f. Tenderness is superficial and if the skin is pushed 
to one side, deep pressure causes little or no pain. 

g. Unlike the pain of a neuralgia, rubbing the part 
does not provoke a localized spasm of the muscle. 

In all true neuralgic affections, the muscles innervated 
by the nerves show a decided weakness almost tanta- 
mount to a paresis. 

Vertebral tenderness of visceral origin is unaccom- 
panied by rigidity (diffused) or deformity of the vertebral 
column and accentuated movements (avoiding tender 
area) are not associated with pain. In affections of the 
heart and aorta, vertebral tenderness or backache is accen- 
tuated by active movements and they are mitigated by 
diuretin or nitroglycerin, notably if the pains are due to 
an aneurysm or coronary disease. 

In esophageal disease, pains are accentuated by repeated 
acts of deglutition. 

27 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

In gastric ulcer, the pains are worse after eating. 

Thus a number of data may be elicited from the anam- 
nesis and the execution of certain maneuvers. We must 
also search for tender points which are almost charac- 
teristic of certain affections of the viscera: 

i. Sub-mammary tenderness. — Present in the left 
breast in the 4th or 5th intercostal space and is a reflex 
effect of some pelvic affection (uterus and adnexa). 

2. Renal disease. — The posterior root of the 12 th 
nerve is associated with the renal ganglia of the symp- 
pathetic, in consequence of which, a tender spot at the 
tip of the 12th rib or soft tissues contiguous thereto is 
found in pyelitis and nephrolithiasis. In affections of 
the renal pelvis and ureter, painful areas are found in the 
course of distribution of the nth dorsal to the 2nd lumbar 
nerves. The contraction of the cremaster muscle in renal 
colic suggests stimulation of the cord at the level of the 
1st and 2nd lumbar nerves. In testicular affections, there 
is a tender area where the cord passes into the external 
ring. 

3. Gall-bladder. — Localized tenderness at the junction 
of the upper and middle thirds of a line drawn from the 
9th rib to the umbilicus (location of fundus of gall-blad- 
der). Enlargement of the latter occurs in the direction 
of this line. In the norm the neck of the gall-bladder is 
opposite 9th costal cartilage but it may be as low or lower 
than the umbilicus when the liver is enlarged (597). 

4. Pancreas. — Tenderness in the mesial line one inch 
above umbilicus (Robson's point) is present in pancreati- 
tis. 

5. Appendix. — There may be several points of tender- 
ness in appendicitis and ceco-appendicitis ; 

a. McBurney's point, one and a half inches from the 

28 



Diagnosis of Hysteria 

anterior superior spine of ileum on a line toward the um- 
bilicus (except when appendix is not in normal position); 

b. Monroe's point, at margin of rectus on the same 
line as the former (location of ileocecal valve) ; 

c. Morris's point, on the same line one and a half 
inches from umbilicus. 

In chronic appendicitis the point of Morris is usually 
tender, that of Monroe slightly and that of McBurney 
rarely. In acute appendicitis the condition is reversed. 
A tender point to the left of the umbilicus corresponding 
to the point of Morris on the right side is often present 
in chronic salpingitis. 



DIAGNOSIS OF HYSTERIA 

So much excellent philosophy has been wasted in 
arriving at a conception of hysteria, that the writer hes- 
itates to express his viewpoint of this psychoneurosis. 
Among the chief conceptions of the disease are the follow- 
ing: 

i. A state in which ideas control the body and pro- 
duce morbid changes in its functions (Mobius). 

2. A psychosis in which morbid states are induced by 
ideas (Charcot). 

3. A mental condition with certain primary phenom- 
ena and certain secondary accidental symptoms. The 
essence of the primary phenomena is that they may be 
produced by suggestion and may be made to disappear by 
persuasion or technically pithiatism (Babinski). 

4. Unconscious fixed ideas in which a sexual factor 
is concerned and, by translating the unconscious to the 
conscious, the impulsions which dominate the patient 
may be eliminated. The sexual factor arouses an emotion 
which is associated with some bodily or verbal expression. 

29 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The original emotion may pass from view, but the expres- 
sion of the emotion lives and recurs in consciousness 

(Freud) . 

From the foregoing, the following factors demand brief 
analysis: ideas, emotions, and suggestion. 

Ideas. — I have employed the term ideopath, to des- 
ignate an individual whose apparently sole affliction is 
some morbid fixed idea. A morbid idea may persist even 
after the cause which brought it into existence has passed 
away. The ideogenic factors may be many but there is no 
idea in the mind which was not before in the senses. "The 
idea of a disease produces disease in direct proportion to 
its definiteness and in inverse proportion to the strength 
of the idea opposing it." An idea "generates its act- 
uality." If an individual has only one idea, the latter will 
express itself in some kind of external motion. The brain- 
cells concerned in idea-formation will discharge their force 
without restraint. Man is not only an ideo-motor but an 
ideo-idea being. Thus with two ideas, one can inhibit the 
action of the other idea. Thought like force pursues 
the path of least resistance, and with the repetition of 
thought a habit is engendered which so masters the mind 
that the idea becomes pathologic, and is awakened into 
activity by the most trivial suggestions. 

Emotion. — This is a state of feeling — fear, grief, anger, 
joy — which is initiated like a brain-storm, and in its 
tumultuous force creates energetic disturbance of the 
entire organism. The emotions are physiologically man- 
ifested by: 

i. Muscular expression. 
2. Bodily expression. 

An idea is so associated with emotion that no absorb- 

30 



o u g g e . s t i o n 

ing idea can be entertained without a change of the entire 
body to harmonize with it. 

Our emotions have a rhythmic undulation dependent 
on the state of body raising or depressing the standard 
of vitality. All feeling is necessarily mental, yet there are 
physical feelings originating from sensations derived from 
the tissues and organs of the body. 

One may objectively demonstrate the influence of 
emotions on the viscera (203). 

Emotions are often an expression of fatigue or are 
fatigue-producing. 

The Lange- James theory refers the origin of our emo- 
tions to an organic disturbance renexly aroused by the 
stimulus of the object; in other words it is not the object, 
but the bodily commotion which the object excited. 

In hysteria one often finds physical or emotional shocks 
or a combination of both as exciting causes. 

Suggestion. — An emotional reaction and suscepti- 
bility to suggestion exist in varying degrees even in the 
norm. In children, this condition is referred to as the 
"physiological hysteria" of childhood. If, however, this 
condition of suggestion and reaction to emotions should 
appear in adults, it would be regarded as a manifestation 
of hysteria. 

If auto-suggestion is a peculiarity of hysteria accord- 
ing to Babinski, then no one is exempt from the disease. 
If a physician dwells too long on the examination of an 
organ, it is not unnatural for him to create fixed ideas 
which graduate into obsessions, so that the patient carries 
his organ in his head, and from the latter citadel, viscero- 
sensorial reflexes emanate. All hysteric symptoms are 
made conspicuous by the fact that they depend and react 

31 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

to psychic influence and the term "impossible" must be 
"erased from the pathology of hysteria." 

The symptoms of the disease show mobility, varia- 
bility and incertitude. The disease, observed Lasegue, is 
a basket into which we throw the papers that we do not 
know how to classify. 

Hysteria counterfeits organic disease to such a degree 
that often the only thing you can positively exclude in 
hysteria in a female is an enlarged prostate and in a male, 
a diseased uterus. 

When a symptom can neither be willed nor simulated, 
it speaks for organic against functional nervous diseases. 
Such unwilled phenomena are: lost knee-jerk, reaction of 
degeneration, Babinski toe-sign, changes in optic nerve, 
hemianopsia, decided pupillary changes, unilateral vocal 
cord paralysis, facial paralysis, ankle clonus and incon- 
tinence of urine and feces. 

Suggestion is common to all psychoneuroses and is not 
limited to hysteria. The latter is, however, facile princeps 
the paragon of simulation. Let us not assume for a 
moment that it stands alone in its majesty, completely 
isolated from other diseases; on the contrary, it permeates 
in various dilutions every pathologic picture, and no mor- 
bid tableau is complete without it. There is such a disease 
as hysteria but there are also hysteroid diseases. Organic 
diseases may parade in the guise of hysteria and before the 
diagnosis of hysteria is justified organic factors must be 
excluded. It is sufficient evidence of our ignorance to 
make the diagnosis of hysteria but it is worse when it 
doesn't exist. 

The symptomatology of hysteria implicates chiefly tis- 
sues innervated by the sympathetic system. 

A characteristic feature of the disease is a lack of inhibi- 

32 



suggestion 

tion, the patient reacting to stimuli, is excessively emo- 
tional and changeable in disposition. 

Investigations show that emotional excitement aug- 
ments adrenal and thyroid secretion which by depressing 
the tone of the vagus (the nerve through which the emo- 
tions play their chief role) stimulate the sympathetic 
nerves. 

There is a certain inconsistency in our conception of 
hysteria when we recognize it as a disease in which will 
evokes morbid changes in function and expect patients to 
control their symptoms by exercise of the will. The fact 
is, that the hysterical symptoms are caused by irritation 
of the sympathetic system and are not under the influence 
of the will. 

Man is an automaton with a dual mentality. The 
mind is one, but a part of it is always conscious and another 
part is never illuminated by consciousness. The two 
minds have been differentiated into objective and sub- 
jective minds. 

The former or supra-conscious mind takes cognizance 
of the objective world through its media of observation, the 
senses, and represents the supreme function of reasoning; 
it is the mind of intelligence. The subjective or sub- 
conscious mind perceives by intuition independent of the 
senses and is the abode of memory and the emotions. In 
this subconscious or subliminal mentality, the phenomena 
of vegetative life, respiration, circulation, nutrition, etc., 
are produced without voluntary effort. 

When the sympathetic nervous system is irritated, it 
is the subconscious mind which perceives the irritation and 
it is likewise this mind which is amenable to suggestion. 
When these subconscious sensations are translated into 
consciousness, there is a reaction on the part of the cerebro- 

33 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

spinal system which reaction assists in completing the 
picture of the hysterical condition. 

Let us draw on positive data in support of our view- 
point of hysteria. In the norm the vagal and sympathetic 
fibers are in physiologic antagonism. Vagus tone is dimin- 
ished by sympathetic stimulation and conversely, sym- 
pathetic tone is diminished by vagus stimulation. 

The ever changing bizarre and protean pictures of 
hysteria and other affections are due to the state of psycho- 
vagus tone (466). 

In every organism there is a vulnerable point and it is 
in the latter that symptoms predominate (Vide also 
exophthalmic goitre, page 71). 

By aid of the spondylopressor (Fig. 1), it may be 
shown that in hysteria, the tone of the vagus is depressed. 
This depression may involve individual organs or it may 
compromise all the branches of the vagus. This condi- 
tion may be reproduced temporarily in susceptible sub- 
jects by adrenalin (page 9). Pilocarpin (451), by increas- 
ing vagus-tone may arrest a paroxysm of hysteria or 
ameliorate symptoms of this affection. Baro therapy may 
likewise improve (469) or accentuate (472) the symptoms. 

I have frequently noted in children during attacks 
suggestive of hysteria, an enlarged thyroid. 

Amblyopia, narrowing of the visual field and disturb- 
ance or loss of the vision of colors (dyschromatopsia) are 
often encountered among hystericals and they may be 
reproduced as I have shown (496) by diminishing vagus- 
tone. The same refers to audition (499). 

When symptoms embrace the cerebro-spinal system 
without tangible reason for their existence the presence of 
an irritable segment of the cord made so by viscero-sensory 
reflexes may be surmised. 

34 



S u g g e s t i o n 

Let us suppose that, in consequence of diminished 
vagus-tone, there is a dilatation of the heart and aorta and 
the patient suffers from pains along the ulnar border of the 
arm with cutaneous hyperesthesia in the same area. Here, 
one must assume an irritable cord-segment and the pains 
which are essentially radicular are referred to the first and 
second dorsal areas. 

Viscero-motor (417) and other reflexes may be similarly 
explained. 

Many of such reflexes are really protective and may 
account for the so-called deception, mimicry and simula- 
tion of hystericals. This protective mimicry is a nervous 
instinct not unlike that observed in insects which when 
resting resemble the leaves of plants or those which appear 
dead in the presence of animals who prey on them but 
eschew their inanimate bodies. 



35 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



CHAPTER II 

GENERAL REFLEXO-THERAPY. 

IRRATIONALITY OF EXCLUSIVISM — PSYCHROTHERAPY — REINFORCEMENT 
OF THE VERTEBRAL REFLEXES — PHARMACOLOGIC REINFORCE- 
MENT — CALCIUM THERAPY — EXERCISES. 

It must be again emphasized although I have done so 
repeatedly that, vertebral reflexo-therapy or centrothe- 
rapy, if one desires to so call it is only one of many methods 
for curing disease. 

If there weren't many paths leading to cure, there 
wouldn't be hydropaths, allopaths, homeopaths and other 
kinds of paths. One may enumerate seventy varieties of 
tuberculin, yet the sponsor claims sovereignty for his 
particular variety. In treatment, the old rule of "curare, 
cito, tute et jucunde" (to cure, to do so quickly, safely and 
pleasantly) must be conciliated and above all, "Nur nicht 
schaden" (only do no harm). The average patient is not so 
much concerned about what he has, as by what he thinks 
he has. In imaginary diseases he believes too much and 
does not believe enough in real diseases. There is always 
a psychic factor in treatment and the judicious physician 
combines psychics and physics. 

The iconoclasts in medicine are usually extremists who 
substitute nothing for what they destroy. 

Cure signifies nothing when unaccompanied by scienti- 
fic proof, but cure is a good thing and the patient wants it. 
In a recent editorial on "Suggestion in hyperthyroidism," 
cures are cited which were effected by nasal operations, 
despite the fact as the writer assumes, the reports u do not 

36 



P s y c h rotherapy 

serve to alter the status of hyperthyroidism or its connec- 
tion with some definite disturbance of glandular metabol- 
ism. " 

It is quite true that many remedies and methods of 
treatment when first employed are effective and later prove 
useless. It is equivalent to saying that the calomel of 
one physician is more effective than that of another. To 
deny that a nasal operation is theoretically ineffective is 
to deny the important role played by reflexes in the etiology 
and cure of disease. Reference on page 74, to the author's 
method of diagnosing and treating exophthalmic goitre is 
an attempt to place our methods on a mathematical basis. 

Exclusive methods of treatment suggest charlatanry. 

*PSYCHROTHERAPY 

The employment of cold (also known as crymotherapy) 
as a remedial measure has already been discussed (172, 
182, 186). It is one of our most expeditious curative 
agents but unfortunately least employed. In our method 
of freezing, the reaction does not exceed capillary-dilata- 
tion and erythema. There may be noted microscopically, 
a diapedesis of leucocytes with some swelling of the con- 
nective tissue-cells. No doubt phagocytosis plays an 
important part in cure. The tremendous edema and 
destruction of tissue when liquid air or carbon dioxid snow 
is used is never observed. 

There is hardly a week that one does not see some 
unfortunate patient who has resisted all methods of treat- 
ment and yet, after a single freezing at the proper area, 
immediate relief is obtained. It is true, that in some cases 

*The employment of cold as a remedial measure in the treatment of pain was first 
reported in 1882, in my inaugural dissertation. I observed its use in the 
extraction of teeth during the time I was engaged in the study of dentistry. 

37 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

freezing is employed but always at a point remote from the 
site of the lesion. Two recent incidents may be cited: 

Patient had her ovary and later, her Fallopian tube 
removed for severe abdominal pains which had persisted 
for three years. The condition was a lumbo-abdominal 
neuralgia which yielded at once to several freezings over the 
vertebral exits of the implicated nerves. 

Patient had severe pains in the left arm for two years. 
Skiagrams demonstrated a cervical rib to which the pains 
were attributed and an operation was advised. It was a 
case of cervico-occipital neuralgia and yielded to two 
freezings. 

To illustrate the results of freezing, in the practice of 
other physicians, I shall cite several instances reported by 
Dr. W. T. Baird, of El Paso, Texas, in a recent paper read 
before "The American Association for the study of Spondy- 
lotherapyP 

Case I. Suffered for two years with excruciating pain 
in toe. "My treatment gave no relief until Abrams' 
method of congelation was brought to my attention." A 
sensitive point at the sacro-sciatic notch was frozen with 
complete relief after two treatments. 

Case II. Constant and severe pains in left mammary 
region. Diagnosis made of phthisis. Intercostal neural- 
gia found and cure after two freezings. Gained 10 pounds 
in one month. Pseudo-phthisis is not infrequent (439). 

Case III. Excruciating pains in frontal region for six- 
teen years. Had all kinds of treatment including removal 
of a supposed abdominal growth without relief. With the 
radicularpressor one could reproduce the pains from which 
the patient suffered. Twelve treatments by freezing over 
the sensitive vertebral exits of the upper cervical nerves 
sufficed to cure. Before treatment she was kept con- 

38 






p 



V 



h 



r 



h e r a p y 



stantly stupefied by morphin. In this, as well as similar 
cases, the cervical muscles were rigid. 

Case IV. Patient with pain in left mammary region. 
Has a valvular cardiac lesion for 10 years, to which pain 
was attributed. Speedy relief followed freezing. The 
interest in this case lies in the fact that a tachycardia from 
which she suffered was equally cured 

Dr. W. T. Baird, employs the following method of 
freezing: A piece of ice terminating in a conical point is 
held in the hand by aid of a towel. The conical point is 




Fig. 5. — Appurtenances necessary for executing freezing according to the 
method of Dr. G. Baert: brass-box, tin-funnel and wooden-plunger. 



dipped into common salt and then it is pressed against 
the vertebral point of tenderness for about three minutes. 
After its removal, a cup-shaped depression is left and this 
is frozen with commercial ether for 3 minutes longer. This 
method is tantamount to reinforced freezing (173). 

Dr. G. H. Baert, of Grand Rapids, who could not obtain 
satisfactory results from freezing with ether owing to the 
absence of compressed air in his office devised the following 
method. Finding that carbon dioxid snow as convention- 

39 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

ally employed was too severe, he found that by confining 
it in a metallic box (Fig. 5), he was able to keep it under 
perfect control. 

The snow is first collected in a chamois skin-bag from 
a cylinder in the usual way. Then it is poured into the 
brass-box through the tin-funnel. Next the snow is com- 
pressed with the wooden-plunger by hand (compressed by 
hammer, the snow loses its freezing properties). Now 
wet a towel and press it against the bottom of the box 
containing the snow. The towel freezes to the box in 2 
seconds at which time it is ready to press against the sen- 
sitive vertebral points. By placing a dry towel over a 
portion of the freezing surface, one can limit the freezing to 
any point desired. 

For deep freezing, a dry towel is interposed between 
the skin and box and pressure is made for X to y 2 minute, 
i. e. } until the deeper tissues are cooled, after which a moist 
towel is used according to the former method. No vesi- 
cation nor other untoward effect follows either method. 

The brass box (covered with a wet towel) should be 
pressed on the selected spot for about 4 seconds, then re- 
moved until the whiteness due to the freezing is replaced by 
hyperemia and the process may be repeated several times. 

The author finds no difficulty in freezing with an ordi- 
nary atomizer with metallic fittings provided a good prepar- 
ation of ether is obtainable (173). 

REINFORCEMENT OE THE VERTEBRAL REELEXES. 

In the spinal cord, there are centers for the contraction 
and dilatation of viscera. In the norm, these centers are in 
physiologic antagonism. When neither reflex predominates 
a reflex equilibrium is established. The moment one reflex 
gains the ascendancy over its antagonist, they become dis- 

40 



Reinforcement of the Vertebral Reflexes 

equilibrated. Each segment of the cord is connected with 
fibers from the brain which subserve the function of reflex 
inhibition. The inhibitory fibers run in the pyramidal 
tracts (Fig. 6). 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY 



Caudate Nucleus 

OpUcThxUairuis 

LentuuLarNurleas 




Crossed- J^ramiolal Tract 



MEDVL.LA 
Hypoglossal Nerve 
■Three I Py rainulnl Tract 

SPINAL CORD 



Fig. 6. — Diagram of Pyramidal Tract and its course through the brain 
and cord (after Stewart). 



The latter convey voluntary motor impulses downward 
from the motor cortex toward the anterior cornua. 

If the inhibitory fibers are irritated, the reflexes are im- 
paired owing to stimulation of inhibition and if destroyed, 
the reflexes are accentuated. 

Clinically, one may observe that, when one reflex is 
pathologically exalted, stimulation of its counter-reflex does 
not show the same effects as obtained in the norm. 

41 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

It occurred to me that, if one could temporarily put one 
reflex out of commission, stimulation of the counter-reflex 
would prove more potential in its effects. 

Let us take the pupil as a paradigm. Its sphincter is 
supplied by the myotic tract which has its origin in the 
oculomotor nucleus. If this tract is stimulated the pupil 
contracts (myosis) and, if divided, the pupil dilates (my- 
driasis). 

Opposed to this, is the mydriatic tract supplying the 
dilator pupiUse (Fig. 19). Stimulation of this tract causes 
mydriasis and if divided, myosis. 

The antagonistic tonus of these two tracts belonging to 
the autonomic system (412) maintains the balance of the 
pupil. Concussion or pressure at the 7th cervical spine 
stimulates the autonomic system through the vagus but 
such stimulation does not contract the pupil owing to the 
antagonistic action of the dilator fibers. If one inhibits 
the action of the dilator tract (pressure between the 3rd and 
4th dorsal spines), concussion of the 7th cervical spine will 
cause the pupil to contract. 

Pressure not exceeding one-half minute stimulates but 
when the pressure exceeds one minute the opposite action 
ensues. 

One may make pressure with the radicularpressor (649), 
with the instrument shown in fig. 7 or a special apparatus 
(478). The latter (Fig, 7) is only available for pressure 
from the 3rd dorsal spine downwards. 

Suppose we are dealing with a disease caused by vagus- 
hypertonia (479). Let us take asthma. If the vagus is de- 
pressed in the norm by concussion between the 3rd and 4th 
dorsal spines (495), a retraction of the lower lung-border 
may be determined by percussion. If, however, pressure 
exceeding one minute is made at the 7th cervical spine, there 

42 



Reinforcement of the Vertebral Reft 



exes 



is no longer any opposition to the lung reflex of contraction. 
Now again make brief pressure or concussion between the 
3rd and 4th dorsal spines and it will be found that the 
retraction of the lung-border is accentuated. 

In the treatment of asthma, pressure is maintained for 
5 minutes at the 7 th cervical spine before brief seances of 
stimulation are executed in the paravertebral region between 
the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines. 




Fig. 7. — Apparatus available for pressure from the 3rd dorsal spine down- 
ward and used for reinforcing reflexes. A, attachments for diffused, and B, for 
localized pressure. 

One fact deserves mention in asthma. Adrenalin chlorid 
(314) is only employed to check paroxysms. Having deter- 
mined its action (314), I employ it as a curative agent as 
well by giving daily hypodermatic injections in the inter- 
paroxysmal periods. 



43 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Suppose the disease is caused by vagus-hypotonia (500), 
for instance, an aortic dilatation. Pressure for 5 minutes is 
made between the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines before stimu- 
lation of the 7th cervical spine is attempted. 

PHARMACOLOGIC REINFORCEMENT OF THE REFLEXES. 

It has already been observed (page 41) that the brain 
exercises an inhibitory influence on the spinal reflexes. ' We 
know that, the mind can inhibit or disturb certain habitual 
and unconscious actions. Conscious attention in disturbing 
reflexes is illustrated by the story of the centipede. The 
latter was asked how he could walk with all his hundred 
legs and in attempting to explain its simplicity became so 
involved that he was unable to move at all. 

In lateral sclerosis, the lateral columns including the 
pyramidal tracts degenerate so that the inhibitory path 
from the brain to the cord is destroyed. Reflex irritability 
is so accentuated that slight stimulation, as the movement 
of the bed-clothes sufhces to evoke convulsive spasms of the 
legs. 

By aid of scopolamin anesthesia, cerebral inhibition may 
to a certain extent be eliminated. 

Even when small doses of the drug are given, one may 
elicit the Babinski reflex (15). 

In non-hypnotizable subjects, I have often employed 
scopolamin. Suggestions made in this state are realized 
after awaking, as in hypnotism. 

To accentuate the spinal reflexes, it is not necessary to 
give the drug to produce amnesia or unconsciousness: only 
give enough to produce drowsiness or sufficient to elicit the 
Babinski reflex which is accomplished with comparatively 
small doses. In the majority of cases it may be given per os 

44 



Calcium Therapy 

combined with morphin (scopolamin, T fa grain, morphin, 
i grain). 

CALCIUM THERAPY. 

My only excuse for discussing this subject is to direct 
attention to an important phase of medicine ignored in our 
text-books, and because this therapy may be used as an 
adjuvant measure in aneurysms and exophthalmic goitre. 




Fig. 8. — Normal human blood showing crystals, prepared with the calci- 
meter, x 450. 



Sir James Barr, and Dr. W. Blair Bell, of Liverpool, have 
been prominently identified with the recent development of 
this therapy. The essential bio-chemical processes in cal- 
cium metabolism are little understood. Our calcium supply 
is furnished with food and water and abnormally from what 
is stored in the tissues, especially, the bones. 

Calcium subserves the following objects: 

1. Building up of skeleton and tissues; 

2. Maintaining the movements of involuntary and 
preserving the normal irritability of voluntary muscles; 

3. Controlling nervous excitability; 

4. Influencing the functions of reproduction; 

45 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

5. Promoting the coagulation of blood; 

Calcium is excreted by the alimentary tract and the 
urinary and genital systems. 

One determines calcium metabolism by estimating the 
relative quantity of calcium in the blood (Fig. 8) and the 
excretory ratio by the amount in the urine.* Thus, if the 
blood calcium index is high and the urinary calcium 
excretion is high, too much is absorbed or if the blood shows 
a low and the urine a high index, too much is excreted. 

Calcium chlorid increases the coagulability of the blood 
and is indicated to check profuse menstruation, hemorrhages 
and other conditions demanding an hemostatic. 

Chilblains, urticaria and many other affections have 
yielded favorably to calcium therapy. Tetany, laryngismus 
stridulus and infantile convulsions are favorably influenced. 

Lime salts have also been used in exophthalmic goitre 
and aneurysms (page 71). Headaches and neuralgias due 
to deficient coagulability of the blood are relieved by cal- 
cium salts. In such cases, potassium citrate will precipitate 
an attack for it is known that citric acid diminished blood- 
coagulability. 

Coagulation time of the blood may be determined by 
placing several drops of blood upon slightly warmed 
microscopic slides which at varying intervals are tilted up- 
ward until they appear as in fig. 9. In the norm coagula- 
tion by this method should occur in from 2^-5 minutes. 

Observations indicate that pregnancy is terminated 
when the fetus ceases to absorb or receive calcium salts 
from the mother's blood. 

Calcium salts have been discredited because given in 



*Estimation of calcium salts in the blood and urine is effected by Blair Bell's 
calcimeter, 

46 






X 



r 



c 



unabsorbable form. The " Mistura Calcii lactatis recentis" 
of Bell, is the best method of administration; 

Pure concentrated lactic acid, 200 grs., Precipitated 
calcium carbonate about, 75 grs., to which are added 8 
minims of chloroform in 8 ounces of distilled water. Each 
fluid ounce contains 29 grains of hydrous calcium lactate. 

The dose is one and one-half to three ounces every night 
or every other night and should be taken on an empty 
stomach before retiring. 



I 



A B 

Fig. 9. — A, incomplete coagulation (tear-shaped drop); B, complete coagu- 
ation (convex drop). 



EXERCISES. 



Exercises are employed for developmental or educational 
purposes, to maintain physical vigor and to correct special 
pathologic conditions. 

The latter is known as corrective or therapeutic physical 
training. 

My real object in considering this subject is to direct 
attention to a neglected field in the study of exercises on 
visceral tone (479). 

Definite movements of the vertebral column make 
traction on specific spinal nerves and such movements may 
be utilized for weal or woe (547). 

47 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

My time has been too limited to classify my results con- 
cerning such vertebral action and I trust that, having made 
the suggestion, it may be exploited by another to some 
advantage. 

It has already been shown how one may augment vagus- 
tone by exercise of the neck-muscles (228, 477). 

To decrease vagus-tone in diseases caused by vagus- 
hypertonia, traction must be made on the spinal nerves 
corresponding to the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines which depress 
vagus- tone. 

Thus in asthma, which is caused by vagus-hyper tonia, 
the patient leans far forward with arm extended and hand 
grasping a support, whereas the other arm is forcibly extended 
in a lateral direction by an assistant (Fig. 10). 



n. 



m*^^-^*. 



k 



Fig. 10. — Exercise for reducing vagus-tone. 

To avoid exhausting the reflex, the exercise must be of 
short duration and frequently repeated. 

As an index of its proper execution, there should be a 
retraction of the lower lung-border (473). 

To evoke the intestinal reflex of contraction in atonic 
constipation (330), have patient stand with hands on hip 

48 



±L x e r c t s e s 

and lean backwards and forwards alternately so as to arch 
the lumbar region forward as much as possible. The latter 
maneuver makes traction on the lumbar nerves. The index 
of correct execution is indicated by the conversion of the 
tympanitic intestinal sound into dullness. 



49 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



CHAPTER III. 

THE CIRCULATORY APPARATUS. 

INSPECTION OF PRECORDIUM — TESTING HEART — ANGINA PECTORIS — 

ENDOCARDITIS — TACHYCARDIA — BLOOD-PRESSURE — ANEURYSMS 

VASOMOTOR NEUROSES — EXOPHTHALMIC GOITRE. 

Inspection of the precordium. — Reference has already 
been made on page 14, to vago- visceral methods and par- 
ticularly to vago-visceral heart-palpation. If the identical 
method is employed, each time pressure is made, the area 
of the heart may be defined. This, like other shadows is 
accentuated by gamboge (page 14). 

The vago-visceral reflex is readily exhausted, therefore 
if not properly seen after pressure is made several times, 
one must wait until vagus-tone is restored. The patient 
while seated faces the window and the physician views the 
precordium from above downward. 

During the time pressure is made, the chest should be in 
the position of forced expiration and breathing suspended. 

The outlines of the right, are less easily demonstrable 
than those of the left heart. 

After a little experience, the shadow is easily recognized 
even in moderately obese subjects. The same method is 
available in inspecting aneurysms. Here, a bulge in lieu of 
a shadow is often seen. Inspection must be from above. 

Testing the efficiency of the heart. — Heart- suffic- 
iency (215, 510), is a neuro-muscular question and its cor- 
rect estimation demands an investigation of vagus-tone and 
the condition of the myocardium. 

50 



Testing the Efficiency of the Heart 

Vagus-tone is determined by the method described on 
page 10. 

With the spondylopressor, myocardial tone is estimated 
by the intermittent impact of the heart against the palpating 
ringer (page 15) each time pressure is executed with the 
spondylopressor. 

Attention has been directed on page 10, to an important 
clinico-physiologic investigation which is available in vis- 
ceral-toning. 

Physio-therapy is essentially a matter of eliciting reflexes 
and if the visceral reflexes are ignored, the scientific value 
of the treatment in most instances cannot be gauged and 
the results must be empirical. 

Visceral reflexes may be evoked in many ways (7) there- 
fore there are many ways of achieving results. 

One must remember however that, although one afferent 
channel may be exhausted by overstimulation, another 
channel may be solicited to provoke like reflexes. 

Pituitrin, is a most efficient agent for increasing vagus- 
tone. 

After injecting 1. c. c. of the preparation of Parke Davis, 
the following average result was noted: 

Recession of stomach 3 cm. 

" heart (left border) ....2.3 cm. 

" liver 1.8 cm. 

Descent of lung-border 2.6 cm. 

Pituitrin has a more marked action on the heart than 
pilocarpin (454). 

The heart reflex (199) is absent in the presence of peri- 
cardial adhesions and apparently so in pleural exudates. 
A few months ago, I was attempting to elicit the reflex for 
Prof. Einthoven, who was the first to employ electrocardia- 

51 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

grams which show electrical variations due to the heart 
contraction. No reflex was obtainable. It was subsequently 
determined that the subject had just recovered from peri- 
carditis with adhesions. 

In another case seen in consultation, the apparent 
absence of the reflex was due to the pleural fluid following 
the recession of the heart. 

Angina pectoris. — Dr. George Jarvis, has directed my 
attention to an important clinical observation which he has 
made, viz., that in two cases of angina pectoris he was unable 
to elicit the heart reflex of contraction during a paroxysm. 
This observation I have since confirmed. These observa- 
tions would seem to confirm my heart reflex theory of angina 
(222). 

Endocarditis. — During several years, I have observed 
three cases of chronic endocarditis which were apparently 
cured by injections of nbrolysin (108) coupled with con- 
cussion of the 7th cervical spine to elicit the heart reflex of 
contraction. The latter is practically a method of cardiac 
gymnastics. I would not have reported these apparently 
incredible results were it not for the fact that Dr. Jaworski, 
in a personal communication reported that Dr. Haffner of 
Zurich had achieved like results in two cases. 

Tachycardda. — This is often difficult to relieve and the 
physician must experiment to determine which method is 
most effective in influencing the chronotropic fibers. In 
some instances, I have achieved results by concussing the 
7th cervical spine, striking one blow per second. In other 
instances, I have directed stimulation on either side of the 
7 th cervical spine so as to influence either the right or left 
vagus (page 75). Some physicians have obtained good 
results by concussing the 6th cervical spine. 

Dr. E. W. Cox (Monroe, Washington), reports a case of 

52 



B I o 







d 



r 



u r e 



paroxysmal tachycardia requiring morphin for the attacks 
which was cured by concussion of the 7th cervical spine. 

Blood-pressure. — There are some data with reference 
to this subject that have not been fully emphasized. 

In the employment of the excellent " Brown Sphygmo- 
manometer" (Fig. 11 ), one estimates (to get accurate 
results), the diastolic as well as the systolic pressure. 




Fig. 11. — The Brown sphygmomanometer. The mercury cannot be lost 
and the cuff is 12 cm. in width, and 23 cm. in length. 



When the slightest wave is felt by the operator, this is 
the systolic and, when the full, normal beat of the pulse is 
first noted, that is the diastolic pressure. 

The auscultatory method is more accurate. One places 
a stethoscope over the radial artery just below the bend of 
the elbow and allows the air to escape from the valve. The 
systolic pressure is noted the moment a thump is heard. 
Allow more air to escape and the moment the thump is no 
longer heard, we have the diastolic pressure. By substract- 

53 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

ing the diastolic from the systolic pressure, the remainder 
is the pulse pressure. 

The difference between the systolic and diastolic pressure 
in the norm is from 25 to 40 mm. Among the common 
factors influencing the readings are: 

1. Digestion, for 3 hours after a repast; 

2. Altitude (increases); 

3. Exercise (rise of 20 to 40 mm. which resumes its 
previous level in about 1 5 minutes) ; 

4. Tobacco, when used to excess; 

5. Pain and emotions (augment pressure). 
High-blood pressure (Hypertension) . — The term hyper 

piesis, refers to simple high pressure without any evidence 
of cardio- vascular disease. 

Hypertension is caused by a multitude of diseases (234). 
If possible, one should always ascertain the cause including 
emotional factors, intestinal toxemia, anomalies in the 
splanchnic area and augmented secretion of pressor products 
by the adrenals. 

If the latter condition is present, there must be a dilation 
of the stomach and contraction of the lungs (page 9). 
We also determine that, if by increasing the secretion of 
the adrenals (page 9), we still further augment blood- 
pressure. 

Conversely, if there is hypotension (250), stimulation 
of the phrenic or splanchnic nerves will raise the pressure. 
Reduction of blood-pressure is best effected by concussion, 
pressure or other methods of stimulation applied between 
the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines (461). 

At the latter point, we stimulate the depressor nerve 
(468). 

If, coincident with the pressure or other stimulus, per- 
cussion of the lower abdomen is executed, areas of dullness 

54 



Aneurysms 

caused by dilatation of the splanchnic vessels may be 
elicited (433). 

The physiologist knows that stimulation of any centri- 
petal nerve augments blood-pressure and the essential factor 
in this reflex rise is vasoconstriction in the splanchnic area. 

The only exception to the foregoing rule, is stimulation 
of the depressor nerve, which lowers pressure by dilating the 
splanchnic vessels. 

The latter have the greatest effect on blood-pressure and 
the vessels in question are sufficiently capacious to hold 
practically the entire blood- volume of the body. 

Another fact must be emphasized in the diagnosis of 
arteriosclerosis by palpation of peripheral arteries. 

A thickened artery is not necessarily atheromatous but 
is often caused by an hypertrophy of the muscular coat of 
the artery. 

Aneurysms. — In a discussion following an address before 
the "Los Angeles County Medical Association/' one of the 
disputants discussed a patient with an aneurysm who was 
treated according to telegraphic instructions received from 
me. He hadn't any faith in my method, he argued, for the 
reason that although the method was employed the patient 
died three weeks later. I replied that the gentleman evi- 
dently had more faith in the methods of spondylo therapy 
than I. I did not hope to resuscitate the dead and if the 
patient had died three weeks later, he was practically mori- 
bund when treatment was commenced. 

This directs our attention to the importance of an early 
diagnosis and I am almost inclined to believe that, by my 
method of treatment of aneurysms, Aneurysma primis in 
stadiis semper curabilis. Aneurysms are by no means infre- 
quent (551). 

55 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Ever since Chiari 5 and Marchand 6 , described mesaorti- 
tis (552) in syphilitics, much evidence has accumulated 
notably, the statistics of Goldscheider 7 , to justify the cor- 
rectness of their conclusions. Among the early symptoms 
of syphilitic aortitis are; pains of the upper-chest accentu- 
ated by exertion, constriction of the chest, palpitation, modi- 
fication of the first aortic sound or the presence of systolic 
and diastolic murmurs or, in the absence of the latter, a 
ringing second sound. 

An increased area of dullness over the aorta is practically 
constant but owing to its late detection, it is regarded as a 
late sign. 

An important sign, is the intensification or reproduction 
of symptoms by elicitation of the aortic reflex of dilatation 

(256). 

Relief by energetic antisyphilitic treatment (including 
salvarsan or neosalvarsan) is diagnostic. The iodids alone 
have little action. 

Implication of the aorta, even in the absence of a syphi- 
litic anamnesis and with a negative Wassermann, should 
suggest nevertheless, a syphilitic aortitis. 

Percussion, is unquestionably the most important early 
sign of a dilated aorta, but such percussion must conciliate 
every possible aid (558). 

Not long ago, the writer saw a patient in consultation 
with several skilled diagnosticans. The case was diag- 
nosed as one of asthma. No increase in area of the aorta 
was noted by the usual method of percussion but when the 
vago-visceral method of percussion was employed, an in- 
creased area of dullness was demonstrable. It was shown 
that, by artificial dilatation of the aorta (256), asthmatic 
symptoms could be evoked and at once relieved by arti- 
ficial contraction of the vessel. 

56 



Aneurysms 

The subjective symptoms of a dilated aorta are paroxys- 
mal. 

Orthodiagraphic tracings made by myself at different 
times during the day have convinced me that the aorta is 
not constant in caliber and one can understand why a tem- 
porary increase of aortic dilatation may precipitate a medley 
of symptoms which disappear when the lumen of the vessel 
is restored. 

The foregoing is equally true of the heart. Recently, 
in Philadelphia, I saw a patient with Dr. S. Solis Cohen. 
The patient had cardiac asthma and it was possible to pro- 
voke or inhibit the symptoms at will by decreasing or 
increasing vagus- tone. 

Attention is directed to the X-ray pictures of Dr. Jarvis 
(Fig. 2), showing the accuracy of vago- visceral percussion. 

I want to call attention to certain errors of interpretation 
which may attend aortic-percussion. 

In splanchnoptosis, ptosis of the heart (529) is often a 
concomitant condition which conduces to a dislocation of 
the thoracic aorta {aortoptosis) . Percussion shows an ex- 
tension of dullness beyond the norm and fluoroscopy demon- 
strates an extended silhouette of the aorta. 

Unlike an aneurysm, the shadow between pulsations 
recedes behind the sternum. 

A pathognomonic test is to have an assistant raise the 
abdomen, at which time percussion and fluoroscopy show 
a recession of the dullness and shadow. 

The shadow of an intrathoracic goitre may be misinter- 
preted as an aneurysm. This is likely if an adjacent blood- 
vessel notably the aorta communicates pulsations. In 
examinations with the fluoroscope one must remember that 
the thyroid shows an up-and-down-movement synchronous 

57 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

with deglutition and the respiratory phases whereas the 
shadow of the aorta is immobile. 

Before deciding that a dullness of the abdominal aorta 
responding to the aortic reflexes (262) is caused by an aneur- 
ysm, have the colon thoroughly cleaned. It has been found 
that, the descending colon will respond in a like manner to 
these reflexes and the presence of fecal matter may lead to 
an error in diagnosis. 

Disregarding the latter fact, I have made the egregious 
mistake in two instances of diagnosing an aneurysm of the 
abdominal aorta. The diagnosis of aneurysms of the thor- 
acic aorta by inspection is facilitated by the vago- visceral 
method (page 50). 

By aid of surgery we may anticipate much respecting the 
treatment of aneurysms. There is the ingenious operation 
of aneurysmorrhaphy of Matas, and the wonderful work 
of Carrel, which leads us to anticipate the substitution of a 
"cold-storage" healthy vessel for the resected diseased por- 
tion of the vessel. 

There is practically nothing that I can add to my method 
of treating aneurysms (257, 568) which embraces aneurysms 
of the innominate, carotid and thoracic and abdominal aorta. 

Reference however to page 68, shows that the method 
of executing the treatment will influence results. Con- 
cussion and not vibration must be used. An efficient con- 
cussor recently perfected is shown in Fig. 12. 

Dr. C. B. Kolhousen, of New Mexico, has sent me a 
report of an advanced case of aneurysm of the thoracic 
aorta treated by my method of concussion. 

He says, " After the first treatment lasting 10 minutes, 
I was utterly amazed at the change of the condition of the 
patient and after six days all his symptoms had disappeared 
and he was symptomatically well." 

58 




Fig. 12. — Dr. Abrams' concussor. 

One of the important advantages possessed by this apparatus is the pair of 
rubber grips which are placed vertically on the vertebra and which confine the 
application to the exact spot indicated, preventing slippage of the concussor- 
applicator with consequent abrasions of the skin. 

The Sliding Sleeve surrounding the concussor shaft serves as a convenient 
handle to guide the application. This sleeve may be adjusted upwards or down- 
wards by means of a set screw, thus regulating the duration of contact of each 
concussive-stroke. By adjusting the distance of the eccentric at end of trans- 
mission-shaft the stroke may be varied from zero to one inch. 

By a unique method of speed control consisting of a pair of inverted cones 
with a sliding belt held taut by an idler-pulley with spring automatically taking 
up the slack, the frequency of stroke may be varied from 600 to 3600 per minute. 
The change of speed is effected by turning the milled set-screw so that the idler- 
pulley is drawn forward, giving a low speed; or backward, giving a high speed. 

The motor is of ample power to produce concussion capable of eliciting every 
reflex of the spine and for giving prolonged treatment without heating or over 
straining in the least. The motor is suspended from a bracket by cord and 
pulleys with counterweight, enabling the operator by the handle to swing the 
concussor back and forth from the cervical spine to the sacrum with perfect case 
and facility of application. The bracket can be attached easily to a door-jamb, 
window frame or can be firmly anchored to a studding or a plastered wall or by 
suitable attachments to tile-wall. 

For the operator who has no available wall space two pulleys can be furnished 
whereby the concussor can be suspended from the ceiling. 

For those who desire an app aratus which can be moved about from one room 
to another, the entire apparatus including bracket can be mounted upon a substan- 
tial pillar and tripod with casters which can be readily rolled about. 

59 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

When in 191 1, I reported in "The British Medical Jour- 
nal" and in' 1 La Pr esse Medicate" 40 cases in my own practice 
of thoracic and abdominal aneurysm symptomatically cured 
within a few weeks by the concussion-treatment with ab- 
solutely no other adjuvant measure, not even rest, there was 
no break in the continuity of results. The cases were all 
advanced. Up to that time other physicians have reported 
in the journals and through correspondence equally good 
results. Since then several cases have come under my 
observation in which the results were modified by compli- 
cations. 

One, referred to me by Dr. Minaker, died from paren- 
chymatous nephritis which existed at the time of consulta- 
tion, although up to the time of her death, the aneurysmal 
symptoms did not recur. 

The same was observed in a patient referred to me by 
Dr. Voorsanger, who, at the time of consultation had tuber- 
culosis. 

In a case reported by Dr. L. St. John Hely (571), treated 
for about 10 days, he wrote me 18 months later, that it was 
indeed marvelous that after this period of time, the once 
moribund patient was without a single symptom. One 
week later, he informed me that the patient had suddenly 
died from rupture of the aneurysm while lifting a heavy 
trunk. o 

Prompted by my early results, I believed that a symp- 
tomatic cure of aneurysms could be achieved in about two 
weeks. 

Time however has discredited this outburst of enthus- 
iasm. 

Several months ago there came to my office a patient with 
an immense aneurysm (Fig. 13). He had been treated by 
Dr. Chas. E. Atkinson, of Los Angeles, who had employed 

60 



A 



n 



u 



r 



y 



m 



my method. No results were achieved for one rnonth, after 
which time, the patient resumed his occupation. Dr. 
Atkinson had enjoined him to take the usual precautions 
but without avail, for later, in lifting a heavy automobile, 
the aneurysmal symptoms recurred. 




Fig. 13. — Patient of Dr. Atkinson with an aneurysm of the thoracic aorta. 

When I saw the patient, he was using morphin {% grain, 
hypodermatically, three times a day). After the first 
treatment by concussion, he discontinued the drug of his 
own accord as he no longer suffered from pains. 

About two months later, Dr. Atkinson, informed me of 
the death of the patient. At the necropsy, the ascending 
portion of the aortic arch was 6 inches in diameter and the 
rest of the aorta was very much dilated. 

Still another case demands citation. 

Dr. A. C. Ackerman, of La Fayette, Indiana, requested 
me to see with him in consultation a patient with an aneur- 

61 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

ysm whom, he said, was practically moribund. This patient 
was treated by Dr. Ackerman, for 3 weeks without any 
result. 

The case was nevertheless interesting and emphasized a 
very pertinent fact. It was impossible to correctly locate 
the 7th cervical spinous process owing to a spinal deformity. 
Its location was effected after this manner; after percussing 
the area of dullness of an enormous aneurysm, different 
spinous processes were successively concussed until one was 
found which produced a decided reduction in the area of 
dullness (aortic reflex of contraction) . The latter was marked 
and concussion executed at this point. 

The same method of procedure is indicated in treatment 
of other affections. There may be some anomaly even in 
segmental localization. 

Thus, in asthma, if pressure between the 3rd and 4th 
dorsal spines does not cause an evanescence of the rales, 
make pressure at other points until one is found which 
yields results. 

There is yet another matter demanding citation which 
may account for some of my results in aneurysm. 

A limited number of observations show that, concussion 
of the 7 th cervical spine appears to increase the coagula- 
bility of the blood. 

The effect of concussion at this point on the number of 
erythrocytes has already been established (617). 

Vasomotor neuroses (275, et seq). — The vasomotor 
mechanism is deserving of brief consideration. Vasomo- 
tility is under the direct influence of the sympathetic system. 
The vasoconstrictor fibers arise from the sympathetic chain 
of ganglia and the vasodilator fibers from the collateral 
ganglion system. 

62 



Vasomotor Neuroses 




Fig. 14. — Mechanism of vasomotility (after Bing). A, cerebro-bulbar 
vasomotor tract; B, bulbo-spinal vasomotor tract; C, spino-sympathetic vasomotor 
tract; D, sympathetico-muscular vasomotor tract; G. R. C. and W. R. C, gray 
and white rami communicantes; S. G., sympathetic and ganglion of spinal nerve* 
Sym. C., sympathetic chain; A. R., anterior root of spinal nerve. 



63 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The vasoconstrictors are found in the mixed spinal 
nerves which they reach by the grey rami communicantes. 

The spinal-centers for vasoconstriction lie in the ventral 
horns and pass from the cord through the anterior roots 
along the white rami communicantes to the sympathetic 
chain. 

The spinal vasomotor centers are governed by a bulbar 
and a cerebral center. The implication of the latter is noted 
when blushing or pallor follows psychic emotions. 

Fig. 14, reproduces schematically the mechanism of 
vasomotility with the following neurones; cerebro-bulbar, 
bulbo-spinal, spino-sympathetic and sympathetico-muscular. 

Vasodilator fibers exist only in special nerve- trunks, e. g., 
nervi erigentes and the sciatic. Their clinical significance 
is not established. It is assumed that loss of vascular tone 
is caused by paralysis of the vasoconstrictors and an increase 
of vascular tone to a stimulation of the vasoconstrictors. 

By some, the mechanism of perspiration is conceived to 
be similar to that of vasomotility and, if one substitutes a 
sweat-gland for the blood-vessel (Fig. 14), the mechanism 
of perspiration may be understood. The cells for the 
spinal sweat-centers are located in the ventral horns in 
proximity to the motor ganglion-cells and if destroyed, per- 
spiration is diminished (hyphidrosis) or abolished (ani- 
drosis) . 

The diagnosis of cutaneous vasomotor neuroses is not 
difficult. 

The difficulty only arises in the visceral angioneuroses 
and the latter may be thought of in the presence of bizarre 
symptoms in individuals with the vasomotor temperament 
(424). By aid of spondylo therapeutic methods which 
enable us to contract or dilate blood-vessels, the pathology 
of some neuroses should be solved. 

64 



Vasomotor N e u r o s e s 

Thus, in epilepsy, the paroxysmal unconsciousness is 
supposed to be associated with sudden cerebral anemia, the 
tonic stage of a major epileptic fit, with cortical anemia 
and the clonic stage, with return of arterial circulation. 

Some physicians have informed the writer that they have 
successfully treated epilepsy by my method of mechano- 
vaso-dilation. 



Anl'Rouiicu&zr^ 
branches from,*. v ^ 
Jntercostal 
Artery. 



An£ Spinal Arta-y. 

Branch/to. 



AntVTfoulLcuJtar 

. — -^ branches from 

\ Intercostal Artery. 




I'usterior 

Spinal/Artery 



'Foster Lor 

SpinaLArtery. 



Fig. 15. — Illustrating the course and distribution of the terminal arteries 
of the spinal cord (after Van Gehuchten). 



Blood-vessels, notably arteriosclerotic vessels respond 
to all reflex influences. Thus, in cerebral arteriosclerosis, 
spasm of the vessels may lead to transient attacks of vertigo, 
aphasia, monoplegia or hemiplegia. In the intermittent 
limp or dysbasia angiosclerotica, a cramp-like pain appears 
when the individual attempts to walk. In such cases, the 
skin of the lower extremity is cold and purple or mottled 

65 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

red and no pulse is felt in the posterior tibial or the dorsalis 
pedis artery (225). 

Such phenomena are due to a temporary spasm of the 
arteries of the lower extremity. They have also been ob- 
served in the upper extremity. 

In the so-called cases of family gangrene which resemble 
Raynaud's disease and in the family periodic paralysis, there 
is probably a paroxysmal vasomotor spasm of the anterior 
spinal artery which supplies the anterior cornua of the 
spinal cord (Fig. 15). 

The pains and visceral crises in tabes are in my opinion 
often caused by a temporary spasm of the spinal vessels, 
a sort of an intermittent claudication of the spinal cord. 

In the diagnosis of these spasmodic angioneuroses, I 
make constant use of amyl nitrite and a rubber bandage. 
The former is employed by inhalation. Its action (flushing 
of face and cutaneous blood-vessels including veins) is mani- 
fested within 15 seconds and symptoms disappear within 
3 minutes. 

Any phenomena associated with angiospasm yield, at 
least temporarily to the action of amyl nitrite. Conversely, 
symptoms (headache, neuralgia) caused by hyperemia are 
accentuated. 

Hyperemia test. — If an extremity is rendered anemic 
by a rubber bandage for about 5 minutes and after its 
removal the hyperemia is observed, it will be found that in 
the norm, the latter reaches the toes or fingers within a few 
seconds. 

In arteriosclerosis however, the return of blood may 
require several minutes or if the vessels are diminished in 
caliber or the capillaries are obstructed, the hyperemia is 
arrested at a definite point. 

66 



Vasomotor Neuroses 

This same method may be employed in a modified way 
for treatment. 

Thus, in Raynaud's disease a tourniquet is applied 
around the extremity above to occlude all the vessels for 
several minutes. After removal, the temporary vasomotor 
paralysis causes a diffused flushing. 

If, after the foregoing method, the symptoms are re- 
lieved, or if a pulse previously impalpable becomes palpable, 
the character of the lesion is probably a vascular spasm. 

Contractures of muscles may be caused by shorten- 
ing or distortion (passive or permanent contractures) 
or they may be spasmodic (temporary or active con- 
tractures). 

If the contracture implicates an extremity, the 
application of a rubber bandage (not exceeding 20 min- 
utes) will like narcosis, cause active contractures to 
disappear but the bandage is without influence on the 
passive contractures. 

All active contractures yield temporarily to the 
application of the bandage hence hysterical cannot be 
distinguished from non-hysterical contractures. Junod's 
blood derivations and Bier's hyperemic method (hemo- 
spasia) are likewise available in the diagnosis and treat- 
ment of angioneuroses. 

Vasoconstriction of the blood-vessels is best attained 
by concussion or the use of the rapid sinusoidal current 
applied at the 7th cervical spine and vasodilation, by con- 
cussion or slow sinusoidal current to the last four dorsal 
vertebrae (279). 

In the latter maneuver, the maximum effect is secured 
at the 10th dorsal spine (604). 

Vasoconstrictor or vasodilator effects may be accentuated 
by recalling an established physiologic observation. If a 
nerve containing vasoconstrictor and vasodilator fibers is 

67 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

stimulated with frequently repeated induced currents, the 
constrictor effect is the more pronounced but if stimulation 
is effected with slowly repeated induced currents, the dilator 
effect is the more pronounced. 

In practice, when one desires the maximum vasocon- 
strictor action (as in aneurysms), only rapid concussion- 
blows must be used whereas vasodilator effects are secured 
when the blows are delivered at a rate of stimulation of one 
per second. 




Fig. 16. — Plethysmograph of Hallion and Comte, with tracing. 



To effect the latter result, the plexor and pleximeter may 
be used in lieu of a concussion-apparatus and time may be 
measured by a metronome. 

The action of the sinusoidal current on visceral muscle 
has been discussed on page 7. 

By reinforcing the reflexes (page 40), further aid in 
treatment is achieved. Let us assume a case of Raynaud's 
disease. Concussion or sinusoidalization of the 10th dorsal 
spine is ineffective in restoring an impalpable pulse of the 
leg. An attempt is then made to put out of temporary com- 
mission the subsidiary vasoconstrictor center (at the 7th 
cervical spine) when concussion is again executed at the 
toth dorsal spine. 

68 



Vasomotor N 



euros e s 



By employing a simple pie thy sinograph (Fig. 16) and 
connecting it with the finger or toe according to whether 
the angioneurosis is located in the upper or lower extremity, 
one may ascertain by the amplitude of the registered curves, 
the most available spine and the best stimulus for augment- 
ing the circulation. Thus, in some instances, the author has 
found that concussion (2 blows a second) between the 3rd 
and 4th dorsal spines is very effective in dilating the periph- 
eral vessels. 





Fig. 17. — Capillary Dynamomometer. 

The author frequently employs a sphygmomanometer 
in lieu of a plethysmograph for the same purpose the object 
being to ascertain the diastolic pressure which represents 
the maximum pressure of the arterial- wall. The ausculta- 
tory method (page 53) is available for this object. The 
best site is determined by noting the maximum diastolic 
pressure after stimulation. 

Still another method is occasionally employed by the 
author in intermittent claudication to secure vasodilator 
effects and that is, interrupted concussion blows on the 
sciatic nerve. 

An excellent method for demonstrating the capillary 
circulation is the capillary dynamometer (Fig. 17). 
The padded button is placed on the skin at a constant 
pressure for a definite time (usually 3 seconds). After 
removing pressure determine the time it takes in half- 
seconds for the blood and color to return — capillary 
reflux or C. R. 

Time of pressure and return of color should be meas- 
ured by a metronome beating half-seconds. 

69 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Orificial methods. — In therapeutics, there are no ex- 
clusive methods of achieving results. This fact I have em- 
phasized repeatedly. 

When my friend Dr. Jaworski, of Paris, secures benefit 
to his tabetics by urethral dilatation (639) he does so by 
promoting reflex vasodilation. 

When Dr. E. H. Pratt, of Chicago, dilates the rectum 
he effects the same object (638). 

The remarkable results achieved by Dr. Pratt, in his 
rectal work appeals to the writer with special reference to 
vasodilation. 

Dr. Pratt, has shown that dilatation of the sphincters, 
especially the rectum, exerts a powerful stimulating effect 
notably on the circulation. 

This stimulating effect on the capillaries he designates 
as "flushing of the capillaries" 

Anal dilatation flushes the capillaries universally, equal- 
izing the circulation and relieving local congestions. 

By careful dilatation of the internal sphincter to the 
point of suspending respiration and then releasing the 
sphincter, respiration begins and continues and must be 
regarded as one of the most potential means for resuscita- 
tion from collapse caused by an anesthetic, loss of blood or 
surgical shock. 

Long continued dilatation, has on the contrary a per- 
nicious effect. I have carefully controlled the effects of anal 
dilatation by plethysmographic and stethometric tracings 
and can corroborate the observations of Dr. Pratt. It is 
difficult by these methods to exclude the action on the 
coccygeal ganglion. When the latter is stimulated by the 
finger per rectum, there is often lightning pains through the 
abdomen, a desire to defecate, fullness in the head and 
occasionally flushing of the face. 

70 



Exophthalmic Goitre 

Exophthalmic goitre. — The author's treatment of this 
disease has already been discussed (280, 482). 

The study of the internal secretions constitutes one of 
the most important epochs in revolutionary and evolutionary 
medicine. 

The glands of internal secretion not only detoxicate cer- 
tain products of metabolism, but furnish hormones which 
stimulate anabolic and catabolic processes and furnish tone 
to the autonomic and sympathetic systems. 

In 1859 Schiff, noted fatal results in dogs after thyro- 
idectomy, and a cachexia strumipriva was observed by 
Kocher, after the same operations in humans. 

Gull and Ord, demonstrated the relation of the thyroid 
gland to myxedema, and Murray, showed that the latter 
and cretinism yield to thyroid feeding. Others noted the 
relief of symptoms in thyroidectomized animals following 
subcutaneous transplantation of the gland. 

Symptoms, notably tetany, following thyroidectomy are 
due to injury or removal of the parathyroid glands (two 
small pairs of glands situated behind the lateral lobes of the 
thyroids in juxtaposition to the trachea). The parathy- 
roids are supposed to regulate calcium metabolism (page 

45)- 

Revivescency of the thymus gland has been noted in ex- 
ophthalmic goitre, and implantation of this gland in dogs 
has been followed by tachycardia and exophthalmos. Ex- 
ophthalmic goitre is probably caused by hypotonia of the 
vagus. 

The symptoms are supposedly caused by a hypersecre- 
tion of the thyroid gland conducing to a species of chronic 
intoxication (thyrotoxicosis) . The enlarged glands show 
increased vascularity and secreting epithelium. There is 
practically always soma hyperplasia of the gland. The 

7\ 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

anatomic changes are not pathognomonic. The symptom- 
complex of the disease is associated with conditions of the 
gland ranging from the norm to hyperplasia, atrophy and 
the presence of benign and maligant growths. 

The thyroid provokes symptoms from deficiency or ex- 
cess of its internal secretion or from irregular functional 
activity idysthyroidism) . 

The most important principle isolated from the gland 
is iodothyrin. The iodin in the gland was first demonstrated 
by Baumann in 1896. Iodin is practically absent in other 
tissues, and its amount in the thyroid varies with the species 
and the individual. 

Vegetables contain iodin and it is therefore most abund- 
ant in herbivora and least in amount in carnivora. 

The iodin content is increased by the administration of 
potassium iodid, and decreased by a diet of meat. 

Iodoform poisoning suggests thyroid intoxication and 
in animals dosed with iodoform, the iodin content of the 
thyroid is augmented. 

In all goitres, excepting exophthalmic goitre, the quantity 
of iodin in the gland is reduced. 

Good and bad results have been reported from the use 
of iodin in this disease. Kocher, found in a series of 160 
thyroid examinations in those known to have received iodin 
that there was a definite storage in the gland which was 
associated with an involution of the hyperplasia. 

The normal thyroid contains arsenic and thyroidism may 
be prevented or alleviated by the concurrent use of Fowler's 
solution (3 minims, three times a day). 

Hyperthyroidism is not always expressed by a typic 
symptomatic picture and a persistent tachycardia may be 
the only evidence of augmented activity of the gland. 

In other instances, the frontier symptoms may be ema- 

72 



Exophthalmic Goitre 

ciation, amenorrhea, irritability, or some mental anomaly. 

Kolb, in a recent communication maintains that, in 
diarrhea without a palpable cause, one should always think 
of a masked incipient exophthalmic goitre. Cases of acute 
hyperthyroidism are characterized by rapid emaciation, 
pyrexia, and spleen-enlargement and tachycardia. The 
thyroid gland may not be enlarged but auscultation of the 
gland shows nearly always the presence of arterial-murmurs. 

Uterine myomata may provoke cardiac symptoms sug- 
gestive of hyperthyroidism. 

To facilitate exploration of the thyroid the method of 
Woodbury is to be adopted; the neck is extended and the 
chin rotated nearly over to the opposite shoulder, with the 
side of the head slightly flexed on the chest. 

Search must also be made for aberrant and accessory 
thyroids, notably at the root of the tongue. This lingual 
thyroid is not uncommon. 

To estimate the degree of struma and exophthalmos, I 
make tracings on a piece of ground glass which is approxi- 
mated to the neck and head in a dark room with light at a 
fixed point and properly adjusted. 

One may make an immediate diagnosis of hyperthy- 
roidism by bearing in mind the fact that, increasing the tone 
of the vagus will ameliorate, whereas a decrease of the tone 
of the latter will accentuate the symptoms. 

For this purpose the radicularpressor (468) is used. 
Brief pressure (not exceeding 30 seconds) at the 7th cervical 
spine increases and between the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines 
decreases vagus-tone. This barodiagnostic maneuver is 
illustrated in fig. 18. 

All the human emotions may be expressed through the 
vagus. The tone of the entire nerve may be compromised 
but the brunt of increased or diminished tone may be borne 

73 



Progress? v e S p ondylotherap y 

by an individual branch ''452"). For this reason we can 
understand why certain visceral symptoms predominate. 
The great physicist Clerk-Maxwell was sponsor for the 
truism that, progress was symbolized in the clock, the bal- 
ance and the foot-rule thereby implying if we could weigh, 
measure and time, we could offer facts in lieu of theories. 

By aid of the spondylo pressor 'page 11 ', we can gauge 
objectively with almost mathematic certainty the degree of 
tone of a given viscus receiving vagal-innervation. When 
pressure is executed at the 7th cervical spine the pulse may 
be inhibited. The more the tone of the vagus is diminished 




ABC 
Fig. iS. — Eyes, illustrating the effects on the exophthalmos in exophthalmic 
goitre, by increasing and diminishing vagus-tone; A. before; B, during time 
vagus-tone is diminished; and C. when vagus-tone is increased. (Compare by 
looking at depression in bridge of nose, caused from the wearing of eyeglasses.) 

(referring to the cardiac branches) the weaker is the stimulus 

necessary to elicit cardiac inhibition. 

Thus we can recognize an orthotonic, hypertonic, hypo- 
tonic or even an atonic vagus. 

In the norm, in orthotonia of the vagus, cardiac inhibi- 
tion does not occur when the pressure exerted is less than 10 
kilograms. I have found that, in exophthalmic goitre 
(notably, when cardiac symptoms prevail' that the pulse 
may be inhibited at very low pressure (2 to 8 kilograms) and 
with improvement more and more pressure is necessary to 
inhibit the pulse. 

74 



Exophthalmic Goitre 

This clinical fact is in accord with physiologic observ- 
ations. If a frog's heart is connected with a heart-lever 
by the suspension method and a i per cent, solution of 
Merck's thyro-iodin is dropped upon the heart and one 
determines the threshold at which the minimal stimulus 
is effective in slowing the heart, it will be found that 
less intensity of current is necessary to produce slowing. 

Hyperthyroidism then, like thyro-iodin in the experi- 
ment, augments the sensitiveness of the terminal end- 
apparatus of the vagus. 

Experiments on dogs show that there is a qualitative 
difference in the action of the two vagi. Thus, stimulation 
of the right vagus causes arrest of the chambers of the heart 
whereas stimulation of the left vagus has a slight negative 
chronotropic action on the auricles. With the spondylo- 
pressor using the small attachment (Fig. i), a difference 
will be noted in the pulse even in the norm according to 
whether pressure is made on the right or the left side of the 
7th cervical spine. 

It is often possible to get chronotropic effects in tachy- 
cardia on one side. I have also observed the curious fact 
that, on the side where the struma is more enlarged or the 
exophthalmos more pronounced, the vagus on that side 
responds to smaller degrees of pressure as shown by inhibi- 
tion of the pulse. 

In exophthalmic goitre, I assume that, diminished vagus- 
tone causes the sympathetic fibers to become dominant in 
action. 

Stimulation of the sympathetic roots of the 2nd to the 
4th thoracic segments of the cord will cause dilatation of 
the pupil, exophthalmos and tachycardia. The ocular 
symptoms of exophthalmic goitre (490) can easily be under- 
stood by referring to fig. 19. 

75 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The cervical part of the sympathetic chain containing 
oculo-pupillary fibers innervates the dilator pupillae, Miil- 
ler's muscle and the non-striated portion of the levator 
palpebrae superioris. There are also fibers to the hypo- 
glossal nerve and sweat and vasomotor fibers. 



Non-striated Muscle 
of Upper Lid. 




Fig. 19. — Diagram of course of oculopupillary fibers of the cervical sympathe- 
tic. The pupil-dilating fibres arise from the pupil-dilating center in the medulla, 
and descending in the lateral column of the cord they emerge in the anterior roots 
of the first and second thoracic segments. Entering the inferior cervical ganglion 
by white rami communicantes, they ascend in the cervical sympathetic to the 
Gasserian ganglion and pass to the orbit along the ophthalmic division of the 
trigeminus. The other half of the diagram shows the origin and course of the 
cardiac nerves. The stimulus applied at the seventh cervical spine corresponds 
to the third dorsal segment of cord and approximately to the 2nd and 3rd|dorsal 



The fibers to the heart emerge from the cord in the 
anterior roots of the 2nd and 3rd thoracic nerves. 

If pressure is made between the 3rd and 4th dorsal 
spines to depress the vagus, one may reproduce or accen- 

76 



X 



ophthalmic G o i t r 



tutate the ocular symptoms of exophthalmic goitre in suscep- 
tible subjects or in those having this disease. 

An antithetic effect is noted by augmenting vagus-tone 
(and consequently depressing sympathetic tone) by pressure 
at the 7th cervical spine. 

Insomuch as the cervical sympathetic is accessible to 
clinical observation, it may serve as an index to the con- 
dition of the general sympathetic system and should be 
tested as a routine method. 

By pinching the skin of the neck, the ciliospinal 
reflex of pupillary dilatation ensues on the same side. 
The cervical sympathetic may be stimulated by con- 
junctival instillation of a few drops of cocain-solution 
and as a result (even in the norm) there is slight exoph- 
thalmos, mydriasis and retraction of the upper lid (in 
the eye in which the drug had been instilled). 

One may employ pharmacologic reactions in larvated 
cases. Ten minims of adrenalin chlorid solution 
(1-1000) given hypodermatically will at once accentuate 
the exophthalmos and diminish the size of the thyroid. 
Pilocarpin will ameliorate both conditions. One may 
also have recourse in diagnosis to biochemical tests. 

Thyroid-extract antagonizes adrenalin in its pupillo- 
dilator action on the frog's eye, and this fact may be 
employed in the clinical recognition of hyperthyroidism. 
This reaction is obtainable with the blood in exoph- 
thalmic goitre, but is negative with blood from neu- 
rasthenic and hysterical subjcets. 

The blood in hyperthyroidism increases the resis- 
tance of mice to poisoning with morphin and acetonit- 
rile, thus making it possible to double the lethal dose. 
The blood findings in this disease (488) can no longer 
be regarded as characteristic insomuch as the same 
blood picture has also been found in simple goitre. 

The leucopenia is probably caused by an excess of 
thyroid secretion. 

77 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

I have found that thyroid feeding in a few normal 
subjects will eventuate in a blood-picture not unlike 
that found in exophthalmic goitre. 

Nothing can be added to my method of treatment of 
this disease (490). 

In some rebellious cases, reinforcement of the reflexes 
(pages 40, 44) may be tried. 

It is impossible to cite the favorable reports in the treat- 
ment of this disease by my method received from many 
physicians. 










Fig. 20. — Illustrating the results achieved by Dr. S. Edgar Bond, by the 
author's method of treatment. 



I shall content myself by reporting the cases of Dr. S. 
Edgar Bond, of Richmond, Indiana, insomuch as they are 
accompanied by photographs. 

Brothers. Belonging to a family of seven, all of whom 
have goitres excepting a daughter. Family came from the 
mountains of Tennessee. 

William, was refused work on account of an immense 

78 



X 



ophthalmic Goitre 



goitre {Vide photograph). He was treated by concussion 
of the 7th cervical spine for about 3 months. 

Other methods had failed. 

The other brother Oscar, had in addition to a very large 
goitre, dyspnea, slight tachycardia and other symptoms of 
hyperthyroidism. 

The results of treatment are noted in the photographs. 
Fig. 20. 

Several failures to get results were found on investiga- 
tion to be due to the use of vibration in lieu of concussion. 

The inutility of a vibration apparatus to elicit reflexes 
cannot be sufficiently emphasized. One cannot evoke the 
knee-jerk by vibration and no more can be expected in the 
elicitation of the vertebral reflexes by the same maneuver. 



79 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE DIGESTIVE APPARATUS. 

ESOPHAGUS — STOMACH — PYLORUS — DUODENAL ULCER — DORSAL 
GASTRIC NUCLEUS OF RESONANCE — DUODENAL INTUBATION 
SIGMOID FLEXURE — INTUBATION OF COLON — CONSTIPATION — 
SACRO-ILIAC PERCUSSION — CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER — GALL- 
BLADDER — PANCREAS. 

Esophagus. — In cardiospasm, my methods as cited 
(589) have been useful, but it is well to take into consider- 
ation recent experimental work which shows that, stimula- 
tion of the peripheral ends of the cut vagi contracts the en- 
tire esophagus but dilates the cardia whereas section of the 
vagi, without stimulation, dilates the lower part of the 
esophagus and contracts the cardia which corresponds to the 
condition known as cardiospasm. Therefore the vagi control 
the esophageal musculature and furnish a dilator branch to 
the cardia. 

In accordance with the foregoing, cardiospasm of neu- 
rosal origin would be inhibited by pressure or concussion of 
the 7th cervical spine. 

This discrepancy between my clinical and the experi- 
mental results cited is easily decided in favor of the former. 
To the end of an ordinary stomach-tube, I attached a baloon 
and to the other end a V-shaped tube connected with an in- 
flating apparatus and manometer (Fig. 21). 

Whether the baloon was inflated in the esophagus or at 
the cardia (40 cm.), the result on concussion at the 7th 
cervical spine was the same, viz., contraction of the eso- 
phagus and cardia. On the contrary, concussion between 

80 



t 



m 



a 



h 



the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines (to depress vagus) resulted in 
dilatation of the esophagus and cardia. 

Stomach. — An unbiased and careful analysis of the var- 
ious methods for outlining the stomach convince the author 
that the vago- visceral method (321, 584) is unquestionably 
the best. 




Fig. 21. — Stomach- tube with inflatable balloon, manometer and pump for gau<: 
ing the contractility of the stomach and esophagus. 



Auscultatory percussion is unreliable. Surgery has 
added nothing because the stomach in the operating room 
like in the dissecting room is examined is the horizontal 
position and an anesthestic (page 82) still further compli- 
cates the situation. 

Fixing the stomach by freezing and by the use of forma- 
lin reproduce the picture of an atonic and dilated organ 
immediately after death. 

81 



Progressive Spondyl'o therapy 

Roentgen-ray pictures are equally untrustworthy (586). 

The situs of the abdominal viscera (influenced by the 
position of the diaphragm) as recorded by anatomists is 
unreliable for the reason that after death there is an eleva- 
tion of the diaphragm and a compensatory retraction of the 
anterior abdominal wall. 

The stomach and anesthetics. — Gwathmey 8 , has 
shown that oil of orange added to ether produces anesthesia 
with less discomfort, quicker results, no preliminary excite- 
ment, rapid recovery from effects with neither nausea nor 
vomiting, with half the quantity of ether. Dr. Geo. Jarvis, 
of Philadelphia, attributes these results which I have con- 
firmed to the oil of orange which when mixed with ether 
suppresses the lung reflex of dilatation and the stomach 
reflex of dilatation which are evoked when ether is used 
alone (319). The previous inhalation of oil of orange is 
quite as effective as its synchronous use with ether. 

I have observed under the microscope that, with ether 
alone, the motion of ciliary epithelial cells was inhibited, 
whereas the addition of orange-oil to the ether seemed to 
augment the motion in question. Post-operative nausea 
and other symptoms incident to the employment of an an- 
esthetic may be inhibited by previous nasal cocainization 
(207). The addition of 2 per cent, of antipyrin to the cocain 
solution will prolong its action. 

The pylorus. — Concussion or pressure at the 5th dorsal 
spine will dilate the pylorus (588). This fact has been util- 
ized for the following purposes: 

1. To relieve pylorospasm; 

2. To facilitate rapid absorption and hasten the elim- 
ination of nauseous drugs from the stomach; 

3. To eliminate the action of the gastric juice on drugs 

82 



The Pylorus 

destined for action on the intestinal tract (intestinal anti- 
septics and lactic acid bacilli-preparations) ; 

4. In the treatment of gastric affections; 

5. To aid duodenal-intubation.* 

As an illustration of the fourth indication, a lady may be 
cited whom I saw in consultation with Dr. W. B. Ryder, of 
Clinton, Iowa. 

She almost invariably rejected her meals, 2 or 3 hours 
after ingestion. She was very much emaciated and all 
methods of treatment were without avail. 

On examination nothing definite was elicited. 

Concussion of the 5 th dorsal spine was executed two 
hours after each meal to facilitate vomiting of the food into 
the intestines. The results were very satisfactory. 

It is quite natural that some should doubt on scien- 
tific grounds the results as cited. Throughout my work, 
I have repeatedly emphasized the fact that no credence is 
placed on therapeutic effects without scientific proof. 

Let any one employ Klemperer's oil-test for deter- 
mining the motor power of the stomach. It is based on 
the fact that oil is not absorbed in the stomach. After 
washing the organ, 100 c. c. of pure olive oi are poured 
into the empty stomach. Two hours later, the stomach 
is thoroughly aspirated. The difference between the 
original quantity of oil and that withdrawn indicates 
the condition of the motor function. 

In the norm at this time only 20-40 c. c. of oil should 
be aspirated. If, after the ingestion of oil pressure is 
made (at intervals of 3 minutes) at the 5 th dorsal spine, 
within 10 minutes, only 5 c. c. of oil can be recovered 
by aspiration if the motor power of the organ is com- 
paratively good. 



: Jutte (J. A. M. A., Feb. 22, 1913), practices transduodenal lavage in entero- 
toxism. 

S3 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

It may also be observed that the dullness at the 
lower border of the stomach caused by the oil which 
persists for about 2 hours will disappear in about 5 
minutes by the maneuver suggested. 

Duodenal ulcer, is characterized by pains occurring one 
and a half to four hours after a meal due probably to passage 
of chyme at this period of digestion. The pains in question 
may be precipitated by opening the pylorus after the manner 
suggested. 

Dr. H. Jaworski, of Paris, has reported to me an observa- 
tion made by him, viz., that by raising the hyoid bone, the 
vomiting of pregnancy can be inhibited. On investigating 
this interesting phenomenon, I found that lifting the hyoid 
bone or the cricoid cartilage opens the pylorus and dilates it 
to a greater degree than stimulation of the 5th dorsal spine. 

When one stimulates the 5th dorsal spine, the stomach 
assumes a vertical position and dilatation of the pylorus 
ensues. Another phenomenon is, that the stomach is so 
increased in tone that it is possible to percuss it without 
simultaneous stimulation of the vagus (321). Repeated 
analyses of the gastric-contents convince me that stimula- 
tion of the vagus (by concussion at the 7 th cervical spine) 
will augment the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. 

The action of gases on the pyloric reflex has been investi- 
gated by Rotky. The pylorus relaxes immediately when 
oxygen is introduced into the stomach but when carbon- 
dioxid enters, there is a spasm of the pylorus which relaxes 
intermittently to permit its escape. 

In gastric tympanites, due to an excess of carbon dioxid, 
magnesium-perhydrol which liberates oxygen in statu nascendi 
should be efficient. It also neutralizes an excess of gastric 
acid. 

Dorsal gastric nucleus or resonance. — Ewart, 

84 



D u o d e n u m 

describes a percussion-note of increased resonance and tym- 
panitic quality immediately below the inferior angle of the 
left scapula (2-2^ inches in diameter) which he refers to the 
deep-seated resonance of the stomach. The severe and 
dangerous forms of heart distress of mechanical gastric 
origin is attributed by Ewart, to a dilatation of the stomach 
at this point. 

This interesting phenomenon described by Ewart in 1910, 
was also described by the writer in 1900 (84). 

The area of dorsal tympanitic resonance may be increased 
or diminished by elicitation of the stomach reflexes (316, 

318). 

One may easily determine the effects on the stomach of 
stimulation of the vagus (concussion of 7 th cervical spine) 
by using the apparatus shown in Fig. 21. 

Duodenal-intubation. — Several methods have been 
suggested notably, that of Einhorn 9 , for obtaining the con- 
tents of the duodenum. 

My method is as follows: An ordinary stomach- tube 
rounded at the end and perforated is introduced into the 
organ after the conventional manner, and some of the con- 
tents aspirated to compare it with the fluid subsequently 
aspirated from the duodenum. Any large glass syringe 
which fits into the end of the stomach-tube may be used. 
Next, an assistant maintains pressure at the fifth dorsal 
spine, during which time the tube is passed into the duo- 
denum. 

If the tube is in the duodenum, the aspirated fluid is 
wholly different from the fluid secured in the primary aspir- 
ation from the stomach. It is alkaline in reaction as a rule, 
and by aid of the usual tests, the presence of amylopsin, 
trypsin and steapsin may be demonstrated. 

Prior to the introduction of the tube into the duodenum, 

85 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

the tube (while in the stomach) should be cleansed by aid 
of the syringe filled with some colored fluid. The object of 
the latter is to make certain the fact that the tube is in the 
duodenum. If the latter has been entered, aspiration shows 
the absence of the colored fluid. Reference to fig. 22 shows 
the tube in the stomach and duodenum as determined by 
previous percussion. 




Fig. 22. — Illustrating the gastric and duodenal areas of percussional dullness. 
The continuous lines represent the stomach and duodenum. The broken line 
represents the vertical position of the stomach during the time pressure is main- 
tained at the fifth dorsal spine. Pressure at the latter site not only opens the 
pylorus in the norm, but also augments the tone of the stomach in the vertical 
position. D, duodenum; S. T., stomach tube, determined by percussion. 

It will be noted that, when pressure is made at the 5th 
dorsal spine the tone of the stomach is so increased that it 
may be delimited by percussion just the same as though 
pressure were made at the seventh cervical spine. 

There is this difference, however. Pressure at the seventh 
cervical spine does not alter the situs of the organ, whereas 
pressure at the fifth dorsal spine causes a transition of the 
organ from a horizontal to a vertical position Within one- 

86 




Fig. 23. — Skiagram of the stomach-tube in the duodenum. 

The intubation of the latter thus attained was effected by the elicitation of 
pyloric reflex of dilatation. 



87 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

half minute after pressure ceases at the fifth dorsal spine the 
stomach resumes its horizontal position. 

It will be noted in Fig. 22 that the stomach- tube (S. T.) 
may be traced a considerable distance by percussion. 

We have been swayed by the dogmatic dictum that a per- 
cussion blow is only propagated to a depth of 2^ inches, 
hence any airless structure beyond this point will elude 
detection by percussion. This fallacy may be easily dis- 
proved if one will place a stomach-tube in contact with the 
posterior surface of the chest and then by percussion of the 
anterior surface of the latter, attempt to locate its position. 

As a rule, the clinician reasonably skilled in percussion 
may locate the site of the tube no matter in what position 
the assistant may have placed it. 

After introduction of a stomach-tube, one may determine 
by percussion its position in the esophagus from the 6th 
dorsal spine downwards. 

Duodenal-intubation as cited is a rapid method and is no 
more difficult than the introduction of the tube into the 
stomach. This method suggests many possibilities in 
diagnosis and treatment. 

Moulin, noted that one could pass three fingers through 
the pylorus and Knapp, observes that the duodenum may be 
entered with the ordinary stomach- tube in cases of complete 
insufficiency of the pylorus. 

A few words with reference to. the duodenum are appo- 
site. The latter is described by anatomists as the most fixed 
and widest part of the small intestine, having a diameter of 
3.81 to 5.08 cm. and is curved like a horseshoe. From a 
clinical standpoint abetted by the employment of the vis- 
ceral reflexes, unlike the stomach it does not change its situs 
during respiration. Whereas the duodenum shows no 
respiratory dislocation, it is luxated downward with the 

88 



Sigmoid Flexure 

stomach when pressure is made at the fifth dorsal spine. 
This may be ascertained if synchronous pressure is made in 
the latter situation and at the tenth dorsal spine (which 
augments duodenal tone and permits of its delimitation by 
percussion) . 

The clinical diameter of the duodenum varies from 3 to 
5 cm., and averages a diameter of 4.5 cm. If synchronous 
pressure is made at the tenth dorsal spine (which increases 
duodenal tone) and at the eleventh dorsal spine (which di- 
lates the duodenum) , it will be shown that it can be made to 
dilate from 2 to 3 cm. 

In many instances, if the stomach-tube is not pushed 
sufficiently far into the duodenum only a watery liquid is 
aspirated, whereas if it is pushed further, the fluid assumes 
a more intense yellow. 

One must recall the fact that the common bile-duct and 
pancreatic-duct enter the duodenum at the ampulla of Vater, 
about 4 inches from the pylorus. 

The difficulty of passing along the horseshoe duodenum 
is essentially theoretic. 

In some instances, a smaller rubber-tube is fixed in the 
stomach-tube and aspiration of the duodenal-contents is 
made through the former. 

Sigmoid-flexure. — The large intestine extends from 
the termination of the ileum to the anus. It is divided into 
the cecum {caput coli), colon and rectum. Its caliber is 
largest at the cecum and gradually decreases in size until 
it reaches the ampulla of the rectum when it again increases 
in size. 

When the cecum is filled, it is in close proximity to the 
abdominal wall. 

The appendix is usually given off from the posterior 
and inner portion of the caput coli about n -16 of an 

89 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

inch below the ileocecal valve. The average length 
of the colon is as follows: 

Ascending colon 8 inches 

Transverse colon . . . 20 " 

Descending colon S}4 " 

The descending colon begins at the splenic flexure 
and terminates at the sigmoid-flexure. The latter (S. 
romanum), is an S-shaped curve about 13 inches in 
length beginning at the iliac crest and ending at the brim 
of the true pelvis opposite the left sacro-iliac articula- 
tion. The sigmoid is very movable and is the narrowest 
portion of the large intestine. It has an upper, or colic 
and a lower, or rectal limb. 

According to the measurements of anatomists the 
length of the large intestine from the caput coli to the 
termination of the rectum averages 5 to 6 feet. 

These figures are evidently too high for the living sub- 
ject. My experience with colonic-intubation always con- 
trolled by X-ray pictures shows that an ordinary stomach- 
tube is more than long enough to traverse the entire large 
intestine. 

Respecting the junctions of the latter, much evidence has 
accumulated to show that is a useless and dangerous struc- 
ture. 

This latter statement was emphasized by MetchnikofFs 
book on u TIie X at ure of Man" and by Lane, who referred to 
the cecum and ascending colon as a cesspool and carried his 
conception into practice by "short-circuiting" or by excision 
of the large intestine. 

Intubation of the colon.— All authorities are prac- 
tically agreed that the passage of a tube beyond the sigmoid- 
flexure is impossible. 

Kemp, observes that in his experience, in every attempt 
to pass the sigmoid it caught and coiled back. Owing to the 

90 



i g m 



d F I 



X u 



great mobility of this structure it is pushed upward which 
fact suggests the passage of the tube. A flexible wire in a 
tube was used but the X-rays demonstrated that the passage 
of the tube beyond the sigmoid was impossible. 

Soper, after a wide experience controlled by skiagrams 
avers that it is impossible to pass the tube into the sigmoid 
except in Hirschsprung's disease (congenital idiopathic dil- 
atation and hypertrophy of the colon). 




ABC 

Fig. 24. — Illustrating colonic -intubation; A and B, tube coiled in the rectum; 
C, successful attempt to pass the tube beyond the sigmoid with cable shown^in 
Fig 25. 



Prof. A. Schmidt, observes that owing to the angle 
formed by the colic and rectal limbs of the sigmoid, it is 
impossible to pass any instrument. 

My investigations on the subject embraced primarily the 
fact that the sigmoid could be dilated by pressure at the nth 
dorsal spine (326) and this dilatation could be demonstrated 
by percussion, if synchronous pressure (employing two 
radicularpressors) were executed at the 1st dorsal (592) and 
nth dorsal spines. For the passage of the tube, pressure 
by an assistant at the latter point sufficed. The pressure 

91 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

made by an assistant should not at any time exceed 30 
seconds so as to avoid exhausting the reflex and during the 
pressure the tube is pushed (very gently) forward. 

Some resistance is of course encountered but it is slight. 

The sigmoid is best straightened when the patient stands 
and this position is to be favored whenever possible. 

My primary attempts to pass the tube failed completely 
as shown in fig. 24. 




Fig. 25. — An ordinary stomach-tube with flexible cable used for passing the 
sigmoid flexure in colonic-intubation. To the end of the cable is an attachment 
with two openings — One for injecting oil and the other for inflation with air to 
facilitate the passage of the instrument when necessary. 

Later, I was almost invariably successful when a strong 
flexible cable was introduced into the tube (Fig. 2 5) . 

Theoretically, one would regard the foregoing maneuver 
as harmless but two deaths from perforation have ensued 
with recto-sigmoidoscopy. A gut with a rigid mesentery 
may be dangerous. Of course serious results have attended 
even the passage of a stomach-tube or urethral-sound. 
Pain is a safeguard in colonic-intubation and due considera- 
tion must be given to it. 

92 



Co I o n ic-Intub a t i o n 

Colonic -intubation is indicated for a variety of condi- 
tions : 

i. To correct intestinal stasis; 

2. To prevent appendicitis. 

3. To introduce nutrient enemata. 

4. To introduce medicaments. 

5. To facilitate X-ray examinations. 

Intestinal stasis is perhaps the greatest contributory 
factor in the genesis of intestinal autointoxication (338). 
Constipation is one evidence of defective intestinal drainage. 
Many of the patients are treated in vain for every conceiv- 
able neuropathy or psychopathy. Mental apathy, acute 
attacks of abdominal pain (often relieved by the horizontal 
posture), headaches, nausea, vomiting and loss in weight are 
some of the symptoms of stasis. 

C. von Noorden, has recently directed attention to 
wandering pains (dolores vagi) due to fecal-stasis in the sig- 
moid-flexure which is very sensitive to pressure. The con- 
dition is essentially an elective neuritis insomuch as the 
sensory fibers alone are affected. Associated symptoms 
are: indicanuria, arthralgias and slight elevations of tem- 
perature (99.5 to 99. 86° F.). 

A bismuth meal shows delay in some part of the colon. 

Colonic-stasis may be caused by splanchnoptosis, kinks, 
bands, adhesions, etc. A definite blood-picture has been 
found by Hoxie; hemoglobin high with normal red-blood 
count. Whites, about normal. With Wright's stain, the 
polynuclears show an increase of cells with large ambophilic 
granules (dark, large and purplish). The latter decrease as 
the excretion of the toxins increases. The degree of intoxi- 
cation is in the proportion of these dark cells to the total 
number of polynuclears. 

A multitude of affections notably, asthma, have been 

93 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

attributed to intestinal stasis and Eustis, has cured many 
cases based on this assumption. Toxic amins have been 
extracted from the putrefactive intestinal-contents which, 
when injected into animals cause bronchial- spasm. 

The general appearance of these patients is character- 
istic: — Cold and clammy hand, pigmentation (sallow skin), 
abdomen is distended and tenderness in colonic-regions 
where the x-rays show a delay of the bismuth meal. Modula- 
tion of the upper and outer quadrant of the breast is not 
uncommon and is often erroneously called mastitis (chronic) . 

Perhaps one of the greatest contributions to surgery 
is that of Arbuthnot Lane, who by his method of anastomo- 
sis rescues many individuals suffering from chronic intestinal 
stasis. 

How much good colonic-intubation will do for these pat- 
ients as well as those suffering from chronic appendicitis can 
only be decided by time. It is evident however that as we 
are now able to pass the sigmoid, more thorough cleansing 
of the colon can be effected. 

Duodenal-ulcer according to Moynihan, is secondary to 
microbic infection from the lower tracts of the alimentary 
canal but the chief role as a source of septic infection is 
played by the appendix. The latter structure is responsible 
for some forms of intestinal stasis owing to the formation 
of adhesions. It has been shown that in the colon where 
bacterial action is at its maximum, it is a predisposing factor 
in carcinoma of the colon. Thus the parts most frequently 
attacked in order of frequency, are; sigmoid, cecum, splenic 
and hepatic flexures and transverse colon. The ascending 
and descending portions are the least often affected. 

Nor must we disregard colonic-fhishing as a preventive 
of appendicitis. 

No doubt infection is the invariable prelude to the latter. 

94 



A n t i s e p t i c s 

The appendix is practically a culture test-tube in which 
feces and microorganisms lodge and are with difficulty dis- 
charged. Inflation of the colon with air may reproduce the 
pains of appendicitis in subjects with recurrent attacks and 
without symptoms. 

In the conventional method of examining the large in- 
testine with the x-rays a bismuth meal is given but it takes 
12 to 15 hours to reach the ileocecal valve, 24 hours to reach 
the transverse colon and 36 hours to attain the sigmoid. 

Now, one can make the examination immediately by in- 
jecting the bismuth (30 ounces) and then having the patient 
lie on his right side for several minutes to enable the solution 
to pass into the cecum. Careful investigations show that, 
intestinal antiseptics taken by the mouth are without any 
apparent action on the bacterial inhabitants of the intestines 
and that the most effective means of diminishing the bac- 
terial-content of the large intestine is by regulation of the 
diet with evacuation of the bowels. The effects of dis- 
intoxicating the intestine by the recently discovered "Glyco- 
bacter" awaits development. 

Constipation. — The author's method of treatment (329) 
in atonic constipation may be due in part to the expression 
from the spleen of an hormone. Zuelzer, has shown that 
intestinal peristalsis is produced by an internal secretion 
of the gastric mucosa elaborated at the acme of digestion 
and stored in the spleen. 

Cecum. — In the percussion of this structure (592) during 
the time pressure is maintained, it will show respiratory 
mobility. Absence of the latter suggests cecal-adhesions. 

Rectum. — Atony of this structure may be responsible for 
constipation. The best site for stimulation is the 5th lum- 
bar spine and the best stimulant is the rapid sinusoidal cur- 
rent. 

95 



Progressive Spondylo therapy 

The latter was determined by using an inflated baloon 
(Fig. 21) in the rectum and noting at which point of the 
spine the needle of the of the manometer was best deflected. 

For spinal sinusoidalization, I use the spondylectrode 
shown in fig. 26. 




Fig. 26. — Spondylectrode. — The distance between the two electrode discs is just 
sufficient to span the spinous processes, making contact with the nerves on each side. 

When the little lever marked "A" connects the two metal plates together, and 
the connecting cord is attached to socket marked "B," the electrode is monopolar; 
while an indifferent pad must be applied elsewhere. 

When the lever marked "A" is open, with one cord at "B" and one in socket "C," 
the electrode is bipolar. 

The current can be interrupted by means of the interrupter on handle; or can be 
made continuous by sliding the ring "D" down over the interrupter to hold it 
stationary. 

Two small discs are provided for diagnostic effects over motor points and two 
larger discs for therapeutic application to muscles. 

Sacroiliac percussion. — Dr. William Ewart 10 , who has 
displayed so much genius in devising new methods of 
examination has recently suggested a dorsal field of percus- 
sion which includes the resonant sacral and iliac surfaces 
(Fig. 27). 

In the norm, there are as shown in fig. 27, two posterior 

96 



Cirrhosis o f t h e Liver 

iliac patches of subresonant dullness due to the common iliac 
blood-vessels. 

In appendicitis, there is a dullness extending from the 
right normal patch of dullness over the normal resonant 
sacral and iliac surfaces. The latter is often more positive 
than the usual abdominal examination owing to the pre- 
dominance of retrocecal appendicitis. 

In investigating this new method, I found that a fecal 
impaction of feces in the cecum will yield an increased area 
of dullness on the right side and fecal impaction in the 
rectum will increase the area on the left side. 




Fig. 27. — Illustrating sacroiliac percussion: N, normal areas of dullness; CC, 
dullness of caput coli and R, dullness of the rectum. 

Even in the norm, pressure with the radicularpressor 
at the 12 th dorsal spine will yield a dull area corresponding 
to the cecum and pressure at the 4th lumbar spine, a dullness 
corresponding to the rectum which extends from about the 
3rd sacral spine to the coccyx (Fig. 27). Percussion of the 
cecum in front has already been studied (592). 

Cirrhosis of the liver. — No inconvenience is usually 
suffered in this affection provided the compensatory circu- 
lation is maintained. 

97 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

In cirrhosis, the various anastomoses between the sys- 
temic and portal circulations are insufficient to overcome 
the effects of an occluded portal circulation. 

Surgery has been utilized by the operation of Talma, 
which consists of establishing a communication between the 
systemic and portal circulations thus causing adhesions to 
form between the great omentum, liver, spleen and parietal 
peritoneum. This operation is effective in about 50 per 
cent, of the cases. 

In the Routte operation, the saphenous vein is anas- 
tomosed to the peritoneum. 

Whether the liver is enlarged or contracted, the clinical 
symptoms are practically the same. 

I have treated several cases of cirrhosis with contraction 
with relief of toxic and obstructive symptoms by evoking 
the liver reflex of dilatation (338). 

Gall-bladder. — I have requested several of my surgical 
friends to confirm my method of locating the gall-bladder 
(598). Dr. Geo. Jarvis, of Philadelphia, and Dr. D. C. Rag- 
land, of Los Angeles, have corroborated my findings. The 
gall-bladder was percussed and outlined by a stick of nitrate 
of silver and, at the operation, it was found in the situation 
located by percussion. I wish to suggest the possibilities 
of a new u physiologic surgery'''' by methods for eliciting the 
vertebral reflexes. Thus, the location of the segment for 
dilating the ureter. Such data are only possible at the time 
of an operation. 

Dr. George Jarvis, an indefatigable investigator on these 
lines found that manipulation of the pancreas increases 
vagus-tone as determined by slowing of the heart and con- 
traction of the stomach. 

Pancreas. — Since using my method of duodenal-intuba- 



r a n c r e a s 

tion (page 85), I have found that stimulation of the 10th 
dorsal spine will augment the pancreatic secretion. 

I do not know whether its internal secretion would be 
similarly influenced. This internal secretion influences car- 
bohydrate metabolism. Lesions of the islands of Langer- 
hans, are found in a large percentage of cases of diabetes. 
The author suggests that stimulation of the 10th dorsal 
spine be tried in cases rebellious to the method already 
advocated (283, 479). 

Pawlow, believed that stimulation of the vagus directly 
influenced pancreatic secretion. 



99 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



CHAPTER V. 

MISCELLANEOUS REFLEXES AND DATA. 

VERTEBRAL REFLEXES IN GYNECOLOGY — PELVIC SPLANCHNOPTOSIS — 
MAMMARY TUMORS — PERTUSSIS — COUGHS — MEDULLA OBLONGATA 
— LOCOMOTOR ATAXIA — SPLEEN — EDEMA — EYE — SPONDYMOBILE 
GAUGE. 

Vertebral reflexes in gynecology. — The following 
are some extracts from a very interesting contribution by 
Charles L. Ireland, M. D., of Columbus, Ohio, read before 
"The American Association for the Study of Sp ondylotherapy" 
(Nov. 12, 1912). 

The following clinical picture is the average one of the 
patient who presents herself to the physician for treatment. 
She is very sad, has bearing down pains in the pelvis, back- 
ache, headache, irregular menstruation, leucorrhea, and pains 
practically everywhere. Areas of vertebral tenderness sug- 
gest valuable diagnostic information. Thus, tenderness at the 
4th lumbar spine suggests a disease of the uterus; 3d lumbar 
vertebra, ovaries; 2nd lumbar on the right side, appendix; 
10th, nth or 12th dorsal vertebrae, renal disease, etc. 

Many of these so-called cases of uterine disease were 
treated by every available method without success until it 
was found that the underlying condition was essentially 
splanchnic neurasthenia (337, 432). Treating the latter by 
the sinusoidal current, it was soon found, that in the absence 
of adhesions, dislocated uteri (weighted by the large accumu- 
lation of blood in the splanchnic vessels) were restored to 
the norm. 

Subinvolution of the uterus failing to respond to the 

100 



PelvicViscera 

conventional treatment yields to methods for eliciting the 
uterus reflex (358). 

"I will say here that up to one year ago I had always 
contended that when an ovary was prolapsed, surgery was the 
only recourse and I had good reasons for so thinking. By the 
use of the sinusoidal current to provoke the uterus reflex, 
absolute cure resulted in 9 cases, i. e., reposition of the 
ovaries ensued". 

The author suggests the neologism, "pelvic splanchnop- 
tosis" to describe ptoses of the pelvic viscera caused by 
relaxation of the ligaments (420). 

In prolapsus uteri, with its complications (rectocele 
and cystocele), operations usually fail if the perineum (and 
not the ligaments) is regarded as the only support of the 
pelvic organs. All the viscera are held in place by suspension 
from above and the pelvic viscera are not exceptions. Re- 
latively speaking, the uterus has more ligaments than any 
other viscus and the round ligaments can sustain a weight 
of about 10 pounds. Even in complete laceration of the 
perineum the uterus may remain in place thus showing 
the importance of the ligaments as supports. 

Splanchnoptosis is further discussed on page 185. 

Reference has already been made to abdominal sup- 
porters (145) and the methods for testing their efficiency 
(146). 

Dr. Nathan Rosewater, of Cleveland, describes the follow- 
ing three distinct types of devices for supporting the abdo- 
men: 

1. The corset type is a rigid, usually more or less 
metallic corset, shaped to hold and support the pro- 
truding belly. These have the advantage of following 
the fashion for women, supporting the spinal muscles, 
also they do not allow of much motion of individual 

101 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

muscles. Some are too expensive for the masses. Those 
corsets lacing in front, of moderate price, answer very 
well provided patients are taught to put them on while 
lying on their back, to secure the organs in proper place 
before protrusion of the abdomen and downward drag 
of the viscera can occur. 

2. The zinc oxide adhesive plaster (531). 

3. Elastic or supporting belts. These are a more or 
less elastic supporter or belt of varied materials and 
forms, fixed with straps and buckles for lifting, holding 
and supporting the protruding abdomen and preventing 
its downward drag. Most of these are too complicated 
for description and impractical. A simple, practical 
form, which Rosewater uses, is illustrated in Fig. 28. 
Unlike most of the others, it has no perineal support to 
irritate and chafe between the legs in hot weather, but 
the main anterior body, A, of the supporter is held 
anchored to its place by a strong rubber belt, buckled 
to it at its lower outer angle on the right, which passes 
outward and downward over the hip, under the gluteal 
folds (which prevents it from slipping up). It is buckled 
into the upper right margin of the supporter A, and 
passes upward, backward, and crossing over the back 
to the corresponding upper left buckle. 

These belts are instantly adjusted to any tight or 
loose condition required, and can be let out for women 
during their entire pregnancy; growing stout or thin 
only requires adjustment by letting in or out of the 
rubber-belt, which is made long enough if desired. For 
long periods of wear, and after laparotomy and other 
operations, this type of belt is inexpensive, simple, dur- 
able and practical. As will be seen in the cuts, the sup- 
port secured is upward and backward, corresponding 
to the natural support given by the abdominal muscles. 
It is best to lie on the back in adjusting this belt, as also 
with any form of abdominal support or corset. The 
author after testing various abdominal belts uses the 
Rosewater belt (Fig. 28) to the exclusion of others 
whenever possible. 

102 



Mammary 



T 



u m 



r 



Mammary Tumors. — Pseudo-neoplasms (198) can be 
made to temporarily disappear by pressure corresponding 
to the sensitive vertebral point by aid of the algesispondy- 
loscope. Insomuch as the object is to inhibit impulses in the 
spinal nerve, the pressure must exceed two minutes in dura- 
tion. I have observed that true neoplasms of the gland 
appear to be larger than they are found at the time of the 
operation. This is probably caused by the coincident mus- 
cular spasm provoked by the presence of the growth for, if 
the conductivity of the nerve or nerves innervating the 




Fig. 28. — The Rosewater abdominal belt. 



breast is inhibited (171) the intumescence caused by the 
spasm disappears temporarily and only the true growth 
remains. 

Pertussis. — Dr. W. T. Baird, of El Paso, has made a most 
important contribution to the therapeutics of this disease. 

His treatment is based on the fact that the supposititious 
organfsms of this affection have their habitat in the mouths 
of the sublingual glands. The duct-openings in this disease 
are red and swollen. The lesions are first dried and then 

103 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

touched in succession with a probe around which cotton 
is wound and carrying one drop of carbolic acid. By this 
treatment the disease may be aborted in 24 hours in the 
early stages. It may be necessary to repeat the application 
on several successive days. Neither pain nor soreness 
follows. In later stages, cure is effected in about one week. 
In advanced cases concussion of the 7 th cervical spine is 
advocated (624). 

Coughs. — Dr. D. V. Ireland, has succeeded in inhibiting 
many forms of persistent cough (which had resisted con- 
ventional methods) notably in bronchitis by freezing sensi- 
tive areas corresponding to the upper dorsal vertebrae. 
Here, there are probably irritable foci which survive the 
disease (439). 

In tuberculosis, writers have directed attention to the 
low position of the diaphragm and have accounted for it in a 
variety of ways. In a personal communication, Pottenger, 
suggested an ingenious reason. He believes it to be caused 
by irritation of the phrenic nerve innervating the pleura 
(549). To test the correctness of his observation, I have 
often found in phthisis sensitive points corresponding to the 
exit of the nerve (2nd and 3rd cervical spines) and when the 
latter were frozen the diaphragm assumed a higher position. 

Medulla oblongata. — It occurred to the author that, 
if one could influence the cerebral cortex by sinusoidaliza- 
tion (383), a like influence could be elicited by stimulation 
of the medulla. It was found that, when a large electrode 
was placed at the sacrum and a small interrupting electrode 
over the medulla and a rapid very strong sinusoidal current 
was used, the facial and other muscles supplied by the 
cranial nerves could be made to contract. This method 
suggests itself in diseases of the bulbar nuclei. 

Locomotor ataxia. — In a report to the li French Acad- 

104 



r 



p h 



r 



I P 



a 



n 



emy of Medicine" (Aug. 21, 191 2), Marie and Jaworski, 
reported their results with vertebral reflexo therapy (616) in 
advanced tabes. They observed that 10 minutes treatment 
by the latter method was equivalent to 6 months treatment 
by the methods of Fraenkel (165) and that this progress 
after several seances was permanent. It is impossible to 
delimit our conception of tabes and Schwab, has truly said 
that all progress in neurology is commensurate with the 
progress made in tabes. Even our present conception of the 




Fig. 29. — Concussor for executing unilateral concussion-analgesia. 



disease as a radiculitis (implying involvement of the post- 
erior roots) , is handicapped by the fact that radicular lesions 
are present in other conditions, notably in syphilis. 

Peripheral pains. — These may be inhibited by con- 
cussion-analgesia (367). It is not necessary to evoke bilat- 
eral analgesia if one uses a special concussor (Fig. 29) on 
one side of the spinous processes. Localizing the point for 

105 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

concussion has been discussed (369). In paravertebral 
blocking of nerves (382), the vertebral point for the injec- 
tion may be similarly located. It is not necessary to intro- 
duce the needle very far. 

By injecting the Schleich formula at different depths 
and manipulating the peripheral sensitive point, the in- 
sensitiveness of the latter indicates that the needle has 
penetrated sufficiently far. Next, the syringe is de- 
tached from the needle and rilled with alcohol (423) 
which is then injected when permanent effects are 
desired. 

Spleen. — Reference has already been made to the re- 
flexes of the spleen (352) and it has been shown that, by 
contracting this organ, one is able to precipitate a paroxysm 
of malaria (355). 

At a recent meeting of " The American Electro-Therapeu- 
tic Association" (Sept. 3, 1912), Dr. Louis von Cotzhausen, 
referred to a physician who suffered from latent malaria for 
a number of years and in whom a typic paroxysm of malaria 
was evoked within an hour after concussion of the upper 
three lumbar vertebrae to contract the spleen. 

It is known that the agglutination test of Widal, in 
typhoid fever may not appear until late in the course of the 
disease or during a relapse. 

In several instances, the author has precipitated an 
early and more decided reaction by previous concussion of 
the lumbar spines to elicit the spleen reflex of contraction. 

Of course, no great value can be attached to these limited 
observations and Prof. Widal, has promised to give the 
method in question a more extended trial. 

Functions or the spleen. — The functions of this organ 
are undetermined despite all the experiments which have 
been made. Taking advantage of the physiologic fact that, 

106 



Functions of the Spleen 

the spleen undergoes rhythmic variations in volume, I sought 
to duplicate the same by dilating the organ by concussion 
of the nth dorsal spine and contracting it by concussion of 
the 2nd lumbar spine. 

Examinations of the blood were made by Dr. Alfred 
Roncovieri, and the following conclusions were formulated; 

Concussion of the nth dorsal spine (which enlarges 
spleen) produces an increase in the number of red-cells and 
hemoglobin. No effect was noted on the white-cells. 

No morphologic changes were noted in the red-cells 
after concussion. 

Concussion of the 2nd lumbar spine (which contracts 
spleen), increases the number of white-cells chiefly those 
of the lymphocytic type. No effect on red- cells or hemo- 
globin. 

Alternate concussion of the 2nd lumbar and nth dorsal 
spines increases the red and white-cells and hemoglobin. 

Unless the 2nd lumbar spine is concussed last, the re- 
sults as cited do not ensue but if it is concussed last, the in- 
crease in the number of red and white-cells is greater than 
when either the nth dorsal spine or 2nd lumbar spine is 
individually concussed. 

1. Average increase of erythrocytes after concussion 
of the nth dorsal spine only. 300,000. 

2. Average percentage-increase of hemoglobin after 
concussion of nth dorsal spine only 5 per cent. 

3. Average increase of leucocytes after concussion of 
2nd lumbar spine only 2800. 

4. Average increase of red-cells after alternate con- 
cussion 650,000. 

Average increase of hemoglobin after alternate con- 
cussion 10 per cent. 

107 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Average increase of leucocytes after alternate concus- 
sion 3 200. 

Edema. — The author's conception of edema has already 
been cited (617). 

A more recent theory is that of Fisher, and which has 
been exploited in his book, "Nephritis; An Experimental 
and Critical Study of its Nature, Cause and the principles of 
its relief, 191 2." 

He assumes that edema is caused by an excessive pro- 
duction or accumulation of acid in the cells of the kidney. 
His theory however, only explains the imbibition of fluid by 
the cells whereas in edema, the water is chiefly in the tissues 
outside the cells. 

Moore 11 , in an ingenious analysis of this theory concludes 
that it is based "ona minimum of experimental evidence 
and has no place in the practice of medicine." In my opin- 
ion, the most serious drawback of Fisher's theory is the 
sweeping generalization of attributing all forms of nephritis 
to the same cause. 

Fisher used successfully solutions of sodium carbonate 
and sodium chlorid by rectal injections in nephritics in coma 
with anuria. 

Bladder. — Supplementing the observations concerning 
the bladder-reflex (358), recent cystoscopic examinations 
made with Dr. V. G. Vecki and Dr. Henry Meyer, show that 
the spondylectrode (Fig. 26) is excellent for the elicitation 
of the reflex in question. The endoscope shows that the 
verumontanum is best contracted when the spondylectrode 
is applied at the 1st lumbar spine. I would suggest further 
experiments along these lines by connecting a catheter with 
a manometer after rilling the bladder with an antiseptic 
solution and then noting the effects of vertebral stimulation. 

108 



Glaucoma 

Eye. — Amblyopia and asthenopia are often dependent 
on reduced vagus- tone (496). 

They may be artificially reproduced by depressing the 
vagus and by augmenting the tone of the latter the condi- 
tions in question may be improved or cured. 

In the norm, the degree of depression of the vagus neces- 
sary to produce either condition may be accurately gauged 
by the spondylopressor (Fig. 1). 

While the patient is reading test types, the vagus is 
gradually depressed by pressure between the 3rd and 4th 
dorsal spines and the degree of pressure necessary to pro- 
duce symptoms is noted. By this method ocular fatigue 
can be measured. Howe, has recently devoted himself to a 
like study by means of an ophthalmic ergograph. 

A physician in commenting on my reflex signs of ocular 
disturbances (443) refers to an oculist of prominence who 
never felt satisfied that glasses were correct until an exam- 
ination of the cervical and dorsal regions showed absolute 
muscular relaxation. 

Glaucoma. — The exact cause of this condition is un- 
known and its pathology is explained by the increase in 
intraocular pressure and the coincident venous congestion. 

Many theories have been suggested to explain the in- 
creased tension but all that is really known is, that a dis- 
turbed relationship exists between intraocular secretion 
and excretion. 

To determine the effects of concussion in several cases, 
it was found that the best results for reducing tension (as 
determined by a tonometer) and improving vision was at 
the 7th cervical spine. Here the effect was to increase 
vagus-tone. Vagus-tone was very much diminished in the 
foregoing cases. 

109 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The method of treatment indicated is merely a sugges- 
tion. 

Spondymobile Gauge. — This ingenious contrivance 
(Fig. 30), of Langworthy, is used for measuring the mobi- 
lity of the vertebrae. 




Fig. 30. — Spondymobile gauge. 



The thumb screw "C" is first loosened and the rubber 
feet "A" and "B" are firmly planted on two vertebrae 
with patient in an upright position. The circular dial is 
then turned so that the pointer "D" rests at "O" and the 
patient is instructed to stoop forward as far as possible ; 
the pointer advancing to the mark indicating in centi- 
meters the mobility between the vertebrae thus meas- 
ured. The reading is then recorded, the upright posi- 
tion once more assumed and with pointer at u O" and 
instrument applied as before, the patient is requested to 
bend backwards as far as possible, while the reading, 
noted to be on the opposite side of the zero mark, is 
again recorded. 

110 



Spondymobile Gauge 

If desired to obtain in one reading the sum of the 
entire forward and backward movement, the patient 
may be instructed to bend forward, the rubber feet 
applied to the vertebrae under consideration, the dial 
adjusted so that pointer rests at "O" and the patient 
requested to straighten the back and to continue bending 
backward as far as possible. 

The scale on the dial indicates the range of move- 
ment of the vertebral column, while the figures on the 
curved bar show in centimeters the entire span between 
the vertebrae measured. 



Ill 



APPENDIX 



PHYSIOLOGICAL PHYSICS OF THE 
VARIOUS FORMS OF FORCE 



PHYSIOLOGICAL PHYSICS OF THE 
VARIOUS FORMS OF FORCE 



CHAPTER VI. 

ELECTRONOTHERAPY. 

EXORDIUM — ELECTRONIC THEORY — PHYSIOTHERAPEUTICS — PHYSIO- 
LOGIC PROOF — REFLEXES — SPINAL CONCUSSION — PERCUSSION 
OF THE STOMACH — BIOPLASM. 

Exordium. — To throughly understand this and subse- 
quent chapters, it is assumed that the reader is conversant 
with the preceding pages and the author's work on 
"Spondylotherapy" {Physio-therapy of the spine based on a 
study of clinical physiology). Despite this assumption how- 
ever, an endeavor will nevertheless be made to simplify the 
presentation of the subject-matter. If technicalities are 
employed they will be italicized and defined in an appended 
glossary. 

Electronic theory. — The physical world may be com- 
prehended within the limits of Force* and Matter. Force is 
that which acts upon matter and the latter is that by which 
we understand force. 

The whole domain of physics is tending toward a unifi- 
cation of the various forms of force under one great principle. 
This tendency is suggested by the transmutation of various 
forms of force such as the conversion of sound into electricity 

*We shall employ the term force as a matter of convenience. Technically, the 
word force is wrong if used in any way that implies its objectivity, insomuch 
as energy, is the objective thing concerned and force indicates its rate of 
change. 

115 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

and of electricity into heat, light, motion or chemical energy. 
Heat, light, electricity and magnetism are under the influence 
of one or two mechanic conceptions : — that of ether and that 
of ultimate particles which embody matter and electricity. 

Matter is an accumulation of positive and negative elec- 
tric charges and the chemic elements are merely varying 
numbers and arrangements of these charges. 

Atoms are supposed to be infinitesimal oppositely 
charged particles known as electrons, the electric units of 
nature. The latter move in orbits and are thrown off from 
all highly heated or electrified bodies. In accordance with 
this theory, matter and force are identical. The electrons 
bombard space and its contents at the rate of from 50,000 
to 100,000 miles per second. 

If one observes a particle of radium through a little 
instrument with a magnifying glass known as the Spin- 
thariscope, one may see a display of scintillating bodies 
flying around like shooting stars and bombarding a 
little screen covered with sulphite of zinc. The light 
effects are caused by explosion of the rays each time they 
strike the crystals of zinc-sulphite. 

Despite the vulgar prejudice of the absolute distinction 
of mind and matter, they are but two aspects of the same 
thing. 

It is difficult to conceive the mind as a simple thinking 
organ; on the contrary, it is psychodynamic and must be 
regarded as a force, like heat, light and electricity. This 
dynamogenic or force-producing power of mind can be 
demonstrated (page 188). 

The discovery of radium has exploded old theories. 
It was formerly supposed that a substance was com- 
posed of atoms held together by a kind of cement like 

116 



Electronoth e r a p y 

the bricks of a brick-wall. Every phenomenon in nature 
is dependent upon matter in motion. 

A moving electron radiates ethereal waves and a fly- 
ing column of electrons produces a magnetic field in 
circles around the moving electrons as a center. 

Electricity is an invariable property of matter. In 
this sense, electricity is not a form but a vehicle of energy 
which can be moved from place to place in the form of 
motion or of strain. In motion, it is current and magne- 
tism; under strain, it is charge and in vibration, it is 
light. 

Physio-therapeutics. — The term physiatrics is used to 
designate the natural forces employed by the physician in 
the treatment of disease. The action of heat, light and 
other forces is so little understood and used so indiscrim- 
inately with neither rhyme nor reason that any good results 
attained by their use is attributed to suggestion. 

Suggestion is often employed as a term of reproach and 
is a most serious menace to progress in the acceptance of 
medical observations. Lotze affirms that, our apprehension 
of the word is one prolonged deception and Taine, in his book 
on "Intelligence" asserts that, all perception is hallucination, 
although in some instances it may be shown to be true. The 
credulous in medicine believe too much and the skeptics 
believe too little. 

One must confess that drugs may likewise act as excellent 
vehicles for suggestion. 

Take a force like electricity which has been used by the 
physician for many years and yet its action has been ques- 
tioned. 

Moebius, a nerve specialist of great reputation, asserted 
that four-fifths of all electrical cures are dependent on mental 
influences. Beard, in his time, a leader in electro-thera- 
peutics, observed, "If you expect to get definite results 

117 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

from electrical applications, you must be sure that your 
patient has faith, otherwise the application will do him no 
good." 

Electricity is one of the most valuable assets that the 
physician possesses in the treatment of disease when it is 
used and not abused. 

The patient clamors for cure and is in no wise concerned 
how it is effected. 

The scientific physician clamors for proof concerning 
cures and rightly so, for all knowledge must be arranged 
under general truths and principles. The physician is handi- 
capped in determining results by his lack of instruments of 
precision. 

Our senses are gross and unreliable. With the tele- 
scope and a photographic plate the presence of millions 
of stars may be revealed yet the light of these stars does 
not in the least affect the unaided eye. 

The ear is deaf to most things yet with a microphone 
the tread of a fly is like the march of cavalry. 

For our heat-sense, we need a variation of one-fifth 
of a degree on a thermometer to enable us to appreciate 
any difference in temperature yet, with the bolometer of 
Langley, a difference of a millionth of a degree may be 
detected. 

My endeavor in this chapter is to show that the various 
forms of force used in the treatment of disease are governed 
in their action by one underlying principle and that the 
latter is essentially mechanic. We can conceive the elec- 
trons as bombarding space with terrific speed thus giving 
rise to all kinds of perturbations of the ether. 

When these ethereal- waves impinge on a medium of per- 
ception, they are practically a series of infinitesimal blows 
which act like drops of water piercing the rock not by the 
force of the blows but by their frequency. 

118 



E I e ctro?iotherapy 

This conception of the action of the forces has suggested 
to the author the neologism, electronotherapy. 

Physiologic proof. — It is not necessary to go far afield 
to cite examples where the reaction of an organism is em- 
ployed as a test for the action of certain agents. 

The physiologic action of currents was an accidental 
discovery by Galvani, and since his time many experiments 
have been made. Protoplasm (also known as bioplasm), 
the fundamental basis of all living bodies contracts when 
an electric current passes through it. 

Protoplasm is made up principally of water, oxygen and 
nitrogen of the air we breathe and from the carbon of the 
food we eat. To the latter may be added sulphur, phos- 
phorus, iron and a trace of mineral salts. 

Protoplasm is vitally characterized by its ability to grow, 
reproduce and to respond to stimuli. 

Nerves and muscles show a definite response to the action 
of currents. 

Taste-perception is produced when the Galvanic current 
is applied to the back of the neck; and if the same current 
is passed through the cheek, the percipient can recognize 
the specific quality of each pole. Passed through the head, 
the same current provokes a sensation of light with color- 
perception, and stimulation of the auditory nerve with the 
identical current, induces sound-effects. 

It is quite natural that nerve-force should be identified 
with electricity. The nervous system (and its mechanisms) , 
has its radii of lines with batteries, switches, relays, trans- 
formers, condensers, resistances, shunts and automatic cir- 
cuits. Electricity is known only by its effects; beyond this 
our knowledge does not extend. 

We know that electricity will decompose water, deflect 
the needle of a compass and heat a wire through which it 

119 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

flows. Chemism, heat and light, the three great forces of 
Nature, are directly interchangeable in rapidity and direc- 
tion of the molecular vibrations. Chemic decomposition 
produced by electricity is known as electrolysis and the 
products of such decomposition are known as ions. 

It is likely that the atoms composing the living animal 
tissues are merely ions which are the material carriers of 
electricity. 

Artificial electric stimulation of nerves corresponds most 
nearly to their natural excitation. Animal bodies probably 
create electric currents and the effects depend upon the 
nature of the discharge. 

The feeblest electric stimulation of a nerve induces in it 
a chemical change. Thus nerve-force is a physicochemic 
process. With every contraction of muscle an electric 
change occurs. 

The discharge of an electric eel is sufficient to kill a horse 
but the means of producing this electric charge is unknown. 

The power of reacting to stimuli, called irritability, is the 
most conspicuous characteristic of the living organism. 

The action of etheric-concussion on the living organism 
has heretofore baffled interpretation for the reason that, no 
account has been taken of the reflexes of the organs. 

Practically every organ of the body has governing centers 
in the spinal cord and when these centers are stimulated by 
the physiologist in his laboratory, organs can be made to con- 
tract or dilate. 

Though these results have been partially attained by 
vivisection, it has been shown by the author that, in the liv- 
ing human, like effects may be achieved by the use of stimuli 
applied to definite regions of the spinal column. 

The latter have been located with reference to definite 
spines of the vertebrae. 

120 



Eleclronotherapy 

If, for example, one strikes a series of blows corresponding 
to the spine of the 7th cervical vertebra, there is a contrac- 
tion of the heart, stomach, liver, spleen and other organs. 

The phenomena thus elicited are known as reflexes. 
Thus one speaks of a heart, stomach, liver and a spleen 
reflex. These reflexes are of some duration but may be 
dissipated at once by colored sheets of gelatine (blue, violet 
or red) held in front of the organ. When the latter maneuver 
is executed, it is impossible to elicit the reflexes of the inter- 
nal organs for reasons cited on page 204. 

What is known as the knee-jerk, is a forward pro- 
jection of the leg when one taps the tendon below the 
kneecap with a hammer during the time the leg is crossed 
on the knee of the other extremity. 

When the tendon is struck, the blow which is in the 
nature of a stimulus is conducted by a sensory nerve to 
the spinal cord. It is then transmitted to motor-cells in 
the anterior part of the cord where it is converted into an 
impulse which is then conducted to the muscle resulting 
in contraction of the latter It is the muscular con- 
traction which causes the knee-jerk. 

If the toe of an adult is pricked with a pin, the foot 
is pulled away in about one-tenth of a second. This is 
also a reflex and is very slow when compared with the 
speed of electricity or a light-wave. The latter would 
travel seven times the equator in a second but the nerve- 
wave travels at the rate of only 100 feet a second. 

A reflex is made up of a stimulus causing a discharge of 
force, transmission of the latter to a center whereby another 
force is discharged and finally, the transmission of force to 
the stimulated area. 

All actions are essentially reflexes and if this viewpoint 
is carried further, it means that we have no will of our own 
and that our actions are simply the result of external circum- 

121 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

stances. We are instinctively active like ants or bees and 
we are creatures of physical forces. 

All reflexes are purposeful in character. Thus, closing 
of the eyelid and contraction of the pupil protect the eye 
from foreign bodies and the retina from intense light. 

Loeb* contends that, irritability and conductivity are 
the only qualities essential to reflexes and both are common 
qualities of all protoplasm (page 126). 

Plants possess no nerves, yet the flight of a moth into 
a flame differs in no wise as a reflex or instinctive process 
from plant heliotropism. 

What happens to a nerve when it is stimulated or 
when it is struck by a series of blows? 

After Loeb demonstrated that, muscles could be made 
to contract or relax under the influence of certain ions. 
Mathews found that, a like effect could be observed in 
nerves. It was Graham, who divided all substances 
into those which crystalize when they solidify and those 
which do not. 

The latter were designated colloids or gluelike sub- 
stances. The colloids in. the body bear a positive elec- 
trical charge and are precipitated by negative ions. 

Now the nerves consist of colloid particles in sus- 
pension and the thicker this jelly-like substance, the 
better will the nerve conduct. When chloroform or 
ether is inhaled unconsciousness ensues when the nerves 
no longer conduct sensation. Here, the action of the 
anesthetic is to dissolve the colloid substance and the 
thinner the latter the less easily will the nerves conduct. 

The colloid particles as intimated, are positively 
charged and a nerve is stimulated by a current pro- 
ceeding from the negative pole. The positive and nega- 
tive ions in a nerve are balanced. Now suppose the 

*The Mechanistic Conception of Life, 191 2. 
122 



Electronotherapy 

nerve is stimulated by blows, then the colloid particles 
coming together would have their surfaces reduced. 
The latter would reduce their electrical charge and re- 
leasing a number of negatives charges, a nerve impulse 
would be started. 

Spinal concussion. — If the 7 th cervical vertebra cor- 
responding to 3 in Fig. 19, is struck a series of blows 
with a rubber-hammer, the nerve-roots are stimulated and 
the blows are propagated to the vagus or pneumogastric 
nerve. 

When the latter nerve is thus stimulated indirectly, there 
is a contraction of the organs (heart, liver, spleen and 
stomach) . Such contraction may be readily observed when 
the patient is before the X-rays and it can be demonstrated 
by percussion. 

If the blows are feeble, there is no contraction of the 
organs, but instead a stimulation of the vagus. Stimulation 
of the latter is characterized by an increase of tone. What 
is known as "Tone" will be described presently. Visceral- 
tone has also been discussed on page 7. 

The vagus is the longest and most extensively distri- 
buted cranial nerve. How do we know that it is through 
the vagus that blows delivered at the 7th cervical verte- 
bra contract the organs? 

If atropin is injected into the body before an attempt 
is made to elicit the reflex contraction of the organs, the 
latter cannot be evoked. This is because atropin para- 
lyzes the motor endings of the vagus. After several 
hours, the paralyzing effects of atropin evanesce when 
it is again possible to contract the organs by blows 
delivered at the identical vertebra. 

Percussion of the stomach. — The stomach receives its 
motor supply from the vagus, i. e., if the latter nerve is 

123 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

stimulated, the muscular fibers of the organ contract, in 
other words, the tone of the organ is increased. 

Now, tone is an essential attribute of all living organ- 
isms. For all practical purposes, the term relaxation, may 
be used as the antithesis of tone. 

The centers in the brain and spinal cord are in a state 
of tonic excitation and from these centers impulses are 
constantly passing through nerves to muscles and organs 
maintaining the latter in a condition of tonic stimulation. 

If a decapitated frog is suspended vertically with the hind 
legs downward and the sciatic nerve of one leg is severed, this 
leg will hang down more limply than the other leg. Such 
an experiment shows that the tonic-impulses are no longer 
conveyed from the spinal cord to the muscles supplied by 
the severed nerve. 

If percussion of the stomach is attempted on an individ- 
ual (standing), one elicits a tympanitic sound but if the vagus 
is stimulated (by striking the 7th cervical vertebra), a dull 
sound is provoked. In our investigations we have deter- 
mined the potentiality of the forces in three ways: 

1. By the intensity of the dullness. 

2. By the duration of the dullness. 

3. By the distance at which the force is operative. 

A moderately thin subject should be selected for 
experimentation and percussion must be executed with 
the subject in the erect posture. If the blows are forci- 
ble, in association with the dullness, there is a contraction 
of the organ, otherwise only dullness without any retrac- 
tion of the organ. 

Why does stimulation of the vagus convert a tympanitic 
into a dull sound? Such stimulation causes the walls of the 
stomach to become tense (owing to increased tone of the 

124 



Electron other apy 

muscle-fibers in the organ), thus putting the air or gas in the 
stomach under increased tension. For the latter reason, 
we have the physical elements necessary for the transition 
of a tympanitic to a dull sound. 

Naturally, the amplitude and length of the waves set 
up in the ether when light, electrical energy or magnetic 
disturbances are distributed will influence the results. 

To test the action of the forces, I employed a strip of 
metal. In the latter, a small opening was made which was 
applied over the 7th cervical vertebra. It is necessary to 
protect the other regions of the spine to eliminate the action 
on other centers. 

When light (used at a distance to eliminate the heat 
factor), heat, electricity (sinusoidal), radium, or electro- 
magnetic waves were applied over the spinous process in 
question, the effect was always the same, viz., dullness of 
the stomach on percussion. The moment some of these 
forces were removed, the tympanitic tone of the stomach 
was restored. In other words, the action of some of the 
forces was purely transitory. 

The electromagnetic waves from a parabolic reflector 
were effective at a distance of several feet. 

Radium (10 milligrams used), was only effective when it 
was held in juxtaposition to the vertebra but the moment it 
was removed, the stomach-dullness disappeared. In fact, 
radium was the most transitory in its effects. 

The X-rays were effective for a brief period after their 
action. I always attributed shrinking of the heart during 
exposure to the Roentgen rays as psychic in origin. In other 
words, the contraction of the organ was attributed to emo- 
tional causes. This view demands revision in accordance 
with these later observations. 

The most powerful of all the forces in its duration was 

125 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

the magnetic force and the latter, will be the subject of con- 
sideration in future chapters. 

Living bioplasm. — All living bioplasm is distinguished 
and characterized by the following properties : 

i. Irritability, or the power to react in a definite manner 
to some form of external excitation irrespective of the fact 
whether the stimulus is electric, mechanic or chemic. If 
the bioplasm is represented by muscle, the reaction is a 
contraction of the muscle. 

2. Conductivity, or the ability to transmit molecular 
disturbances at one point to all parts of the irritable mate- 
rial. 

3. Motility, or the power of exhibiting spontaneous 
movements. 

Physiologists aver that, all protoplasmic movement is 
the resultant of natural causes the nature of which is not 
understood. 

We shall attempt to prove that the foregoing properties 
of bioplasm, which, in their summation is nought else but 
tone, may be reproduced by magnetic force without stimuli 
transmitted from the nerve-centers. 

Furthermore, that in such reproduction the tone exceeds 
that created in the organism. 

Summarizing the subject-matter of this chapter, the 
following conclusions may be formulated : 

1. The therapeutic action of the various forms of force 
is dependent upon matter in motion. 

2. The etheric- waves thus created by bombarding elec- 
trons are equivalent in their action to a species of concussion. 

3. Insomuch as the action of all the forces is governed 
by one underlying principle which is essentially mechanic, 
the neologism electrono therapy is suggested. 

4. In electronotherapy, reflexes are elicited independent 

126 



Electronotherapy 

of the fact whether the forces are employed at the periphery 
or at a spinal center. Applied in the latter situation, the 
reflexes are of greater amplitude and of longer duration. 
It is therefore evident that, in the treatment of disease by 
aid of reflexes (Reflexo therapy) , the elicitation of central 
reflexes is preferable. 

5. The forces like light and the X-rays, directed toward 
the stomach-region and at a distance, will increase the tone 
of the stomach, as evidenced by the conversion of the normal 
tympanitic sound into a dull one. 

The moments the forces cited are brought in immediate 
contact with the stomach-region their irritant effect becomes 
manifest and no dullness ensues. 

Light from a thermotherapeutic lamp which consists of 
a large incandescent bulb (50 C. P.), in connection with a 
parabolic metallic reflector, yields a stomach-dullness at a 
distance of 24 feet after passing through two plaster- walls of 
my office. 

With a patient within a few feet from the source of 
illumination, the rays pass through lead, sheet-iron and other 
metal. In other words, if a sheet of metal is held over the 
stomach and the light is directed on the metal, a dullness of 
the stomach can be elicited. This dullness however evan- 
esces the moment the light is withdrawn. 

This experiment demonstrates that there are components 
in light which in their penetrative power bear a resemblance 
to Roentgen's rays but differing from the latter, in their ability 
to pass through glass, lead and bone. 

The great mathematician, James Clerk-Maxwell, 
contended that light and electricity were fundamentally 
one. It was on this theory that Hertz, was led to dis- 
cover his waves which Marconi, utilized for conveying 
messages. Sir Oliver Lodge, refers to light as an electro- 

127 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

magnetic disturbance of the ether. In other words, 
light is an electric vibration, the result of electric oscilla- 
tions in the molecules of bodies which are hot or in bodies 
without heat (phenomenon of phosphorescence). 

Futher experiments were conducted with an ordinary 
1 6 C. P. incandescent bulb; the subject standing at a dis- 
tance of 5 feet from the source of illumination. The trans- 
ition of the stomach from tympanicity to dullness being 
utilized as a criterion of action. 

The following conclusions were formulated with reference 
to several investigations: 

i. An uncolored bulb produced dullness only during the 
time the light was directed on the stomach-region. 

2. Filtered through blue or red glass, the results were 
absolutely negative, i. e., no dullness ensued. The results 
were equally negative with green and violet. 

3. Filtered through yellow glass, a dullness (after 
removal of the light) ensued lasting 2 minutes. In this, as 
well as in the foregoing experiments, the exposure was about 
20 seconds in duration. 

4. The solar rays* were negative until concentrated 
by aid of a large lens at some distance. Too small a focus 
annihilated the results. When the solar rays were focused 
on a sheet of lead held in front of the stomach-region, dull- 
ness of the stomach ensued just the same as when light from 
an incandescent bulb was passed through a sheet of lead. 



*Kime (Iowa Med. Jour., April, 1900), speaking of his own work on the use of the 
solar rays (heliotherapy), refers to Finsen, himself and myself, who working 
along the same lines independently, each has pursued his own methods. 
"In order of their publication," he continues, "the papers were, Abrams, 
March, 1899; Kime, June, 1899; Finsen, September, 1899." 

The treatment of laryngeal tuberculosis by the solar rays is accredited to Sorgo, 
and called the "Sorgo Treatment." The identical method was suggested by 
the author many years in advance. The only reasonable object of this cita- 
tion, is to establish the matter of priority in discovery. 

128 



Elect ronotherapy 

5. When the magnetic flux from a small or a powerful 
electromagnet passed through any colored glass excepting 
yellow glass, no stomach dullness ensued. 

6. When the magnetic flux passes through a yellow 
medium, the stomach tonicity (as revealed by dullness), 
lasts nine times as long as simple exposure. Gamboge 
painted over the stomach-region prolongs the tonicity three 
times the length of time. 

Crude experiments conducted by the author show 
that, color modifies the attractive attributes of an ordi- 
nary magnet; yellow and blue increasing and red, de- 
creasing such attraction. 

7. Heat is negative through colored glass excepting 
yellow. 

8. When a concussion-apparatus is allowed to concuss 
the air at some distance from the subject, stomach-dullness 
may be elicited. If colored media are interposed between 
the apparatus and the subject, no dullness ensues unless 
yellow glass or a yellow gelatine sheet is used. 

9. A yellow medium prolongs the duration of the stom- 
ach-tonicity with heat, light and magnetism to a greater 
extent than when the latter are used a] one. 

10. When two forces are employed synchronously no 
stomach-dullness ensues; one force negativing the action of 
the other force. 

Here, we are probably dealing with similarly charged 
forces as is the case with colors (page 204). If heat and 
light are used simultaneously with the magnetic force so 
that, the heat or light is directed toward the negative pole 
of the magnet (while the positive pole of the latter is directed 
toward the body), stomach-dullness ensues. 

11. When yellow glass is placed in front of an X-ray 
tube some rays pass which produce a stomach-dull 'ness. 

129 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

12. If yellow glass is held in front of the stomach, in 
ordinary light, a dullness at once ensues. This color will 
intensify the tone of all the organs and permits of a better 
definition of their boundaries by percussion. In other words, 
this color augments the tonicity of the organs. Other colors 
thus used diminish the tonicity and decrease the boundaries 
of the organs (page 151). To relax the organs and thus 
secure a visceral rest-cure, green, violet or blue may be used 
and yellow when a tonic effect is desired. 

13. Any variation in the proportion and character of 
the electrolytes in a tissue is capable of imparting to that 
tissue certain properties. The chief electrolyte in our 
blood is sodium chlorid. If a muscle is put into a solution 
of the latter (i. e., isotonic with the muscle), it twitches 
rhythmically, while the addition of a soluble calcium salt 
prevents the twitching. My investigations show that the 
stomach-musculature exhibits like phenomena. Let a sub- 
ject ingest 50CC. of normal salt solution — a persistent 
stomach-dullness ensues until inhibited by the ingestion 
of the same quantity of fluid containing 5 grains of chlorid 
of calcium. When the latter is ingested, it is impossible 
to impart tone to the stomach by the most powerful mag- 
netic flux. Chlorid of calcium may be indicated in all 
spasmodic conditions of the stomach-muscle. 



130 



M a g n 



CHAPTER VII. 

MAGNETIC FORCE. 

HISTORICAL. 

MAGNETISM AND CHARLATANRY — GILBERT — PARACELSUS — MESMER 
— DE PUYSEGUR — PERKINS — MODERN HISTORY. 

We are devoting special consideration to the magnetic 
force for the reason that, it is convenient to use, it has no 
pernicious effects, it is more potential in action and it has 
antedated the various forms of force in the treatment of 
disease. 

The force of magnetism can lay claim to great antiquity. 
It is not strange that, "The Father of Philosophy," Thales, 
should have endowed the magnet with a soul or as an ex- 
pression of life. If this mysterious force were unknown to us, 
even in this day of great achievements, its discovery would 
awaken the same extraordinary interest and awe which 
Plato, Aristotle and even Homer could not evade. 

If Lucretius, were inspired to sing the magnet's power in 
his "De Rerum Natura" he could have apostrophized no 
greater marvel. 

The fact that, we are already acquainted with some of 
its attributes, should prove an incentive to know more about 
a force the nature of which is only known to us by its effects.* 
The medical history of magnetism is a riotous recital of 
misguided judgment, defective imagination and charlatanry. 



*"It is sometimes of great use in natural philosophy," said Sir William Herschel, 
to doubt of things that are commonly taken for granted, especially as the 
means of resolving any doubt, when once it is entertained, are often within 
our reach." 

131 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Contributory to exaggeration of statement was the fact 
that, no attribute however mysterious could be superim- 
posed on the magnetic force which could add to its myster- 
iousness. 

So securely is magnetism interwoven with charlatanry 
that, he who attempts to sever the bonds must be pre- 
pared to suffer the darts of calumny but the undaunted 
one, will find ample reward for his undertaking despite 
the fact that, in medicine, it is easier to establish a fact 
than to have it accepted. 

Perhaps the greatest work ever published on magnetism 
was that of an Englishman, William Gilbert, who, in the 
year 1600, was President of the " Royal College of Physi- 
cians." He mentions that, Discorides, believed that if a 
piece of lodestone were finely ground and mixed with water 
it would when swallowed, benefit many disorders of the blood. 

Magnetic medicine however, was regarded as danger- 
ous, insomuch as it contributed to melancholia and even 
death. The ancients who entertained curious ideas respect- 
ing the curative virtues of magnets conceived different 
kinds, some of which were beneficial and others dangerous. 

Some asserted that small quantities of ground lodestone 
were the true "elixir of life." It was also claimed that, 
lodestone taken internally, possessed the power of drawing 
iron arrow-heads from the body and that, this power was 
also effective in absorbing the arrow-head. 

The famous salve of Paracelsus, for the treatment of 
wounds caused by iron-daggers was an elaboration of this 
idea. The salve was essentially a compound of powdered 
lodestone and ordinary ointment. 

It was this same Paracelsus, really a great physician, in 
the first half of the 16th century, who regarded personal 

132 



Magnetic F 



r 



magnetism as a force not unlike that of a magnet which 
attracted iron. 

To him the attraction of sex was essentially magnetic. 

What we now call gravitation, was regarded by Kepler, 
perhaps the most profound thinker of his time, as magnetic 
attraction. To him, the magnet was the soul of the physi- 
cal world and it was by magnetic attraction that the planets 
were held in bondage with the sun. 

Descartes, was likewise engaged with a theoretical study 
of magnetism. 

At this epoch, the magneto-motive force was employed 
as a convenient vehicle for explaining all psychologic phe- 
nomena and it was extensively used in the treatment of dis- 
ease. 

In 1766, Mesmer, published "De Planetarum Influxu" 
designed to show planetary influence on the nervous system 
and his " Ueber die Magnetkur" was the product of his 
studies of magnetism as a curative agent. 

Mesmer, supposed that a force existed which he called 
" animal magnetism," by means of which, one person could 
influence another. This "animal influence," he regarded 
as the essential nature of mesmerism. Subsequent investi- 
gators demonstrated conclusively that, the phenomena ob- 
served by Mesmer, were wholly subjective and quite inde- 
pendent of any known force. 

Swedenborg, in 1763, claimed that, by magnetic sleep 
one could be raised to the celestial light even in this world, 
if the bodily senses could be entombed in lethargic slumber. 

Binet and Fere, describe the performances of Mesmer, 
who, with a long iron- wand would walk among his throng 
of patients touching the latter particularly the affected 
parts of the body. To energize his results, he would 
sometimes substitute for his manipulations strong elec- 

133 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

trie currents. In his manipulations, he would pass his 
fingers over the body of the patient time and time again, 
until he was assured that the magnetized person was 
thoroughly saturated with the healing fluid. 

De Puysegur, in his instructions to hypnotizers, whom 
he designates as magnetizers, enjoins them to regard them- 
selves as magnets and the arms, particularly the hands, as 
poles and to imagine the magnetic fluid as passing from one 
hand to the other through the body of the patient. 

An American, Dr. Elisha Perkins, by name, may be 
regarded as the prince of charlatans. He exploited the dis- 
coveries of Galvani and Volta, by employing two pieces of 
metal known as " Metallic Tractors." The latter drawn 
over affected parts could cure practically everything by 
virtue of their magnetic influence. His patented discovery 
gained him wealth and fame. The "tractor cure," as it was 
called, led Dr. Hay garth, to fabricate a pair of false tractors 
by which marvelous magnetic cures were likewise effected. 
These tractors were made of every conceivable material but 
results were equally good, provided the operator during 
their application, discussed magnetism and described squares, 
circles and triangles with the sham- tractors. 

In New York, at one time, yellow fever was prevalent 
and Perkins, with faith in his tractors went there to cure 
the disease but succumbed to the fever which he contracted. 

Belief in the curative powers of the magnet was pro- 
mulgated by Baron von Reichenbach. He claimed to have 
discovered a new force from magnets which he called odic 
or odylic force. The latter, like the magnetic flux, was in- 
visible and its properties could only be determined by its 
effects. Despite the popularity of the odic force in the treat- 
ment of disease, it was shown that the effects were caused 
by the influence of the mind over the body. Though the 

134 



Magnetic F o r c e 

patients claimed they could see faint luminous emanations 
issuing from the magnet, a piece of wood so prepared to re- 
semble a magnet yielded like results. 

Modern history. — The concensus of opinion of modern 
investigators favors the view that, magnets are endowed 
with absolutely no power on the human organism and that, 
so-called magneto- therapy is merely a delusion. 

Some years ago, Thomas Edison, confined a boy's head 
inside a colossal electro-magnet thus permitting the mag- 
netic flux to pass through his brain. Absolutely no effects 
were observed. Later, experiments were made with the 
flux passing through the body of a man. The flux was 
sufficiently powerful to hold rigidly heavy iron-spikes 
against the breast and forehead, yet no effects either for 
weal or woe were noted. 

As a result of elaborate experiments made by Peterson 12 
and Kennelly, they concluded that, the human organism 
was in no wise appreciably affected by the most powerful 
magnets and that, neither direct nor reversed magnetism 
exerts any apparent influence upon the iron contained in 
the blood, upon the circulation, upon the brain, nerves or 
upon ciliary or protoplasmic movements. 

Modern literature is quite prolific with the reports of 
cases cured by "magnetic wave-currents," and one physi- 
cian, who reports many such cases, concludes, "results are 
so much more satisfying and convincing than a library of 
theories." 

To account for these results many ingenious theories are 
invoked. One supposes that the magnetic waves have a 
vibratory action upon cellular life. Another, compares the 
action of the waves to the exchange between the poles of a 
Galvanic current. 

Another, is convinced that, by permitting the waves to 

135 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

act promiscuously along the spine, there is a notable effect 
on metabolism. Wm. Harvey King, conducting a series of 
experiments with the waves on blood-pressure, noted an 
average increase of the latter of 16 mm. He found that, the 
treatment increased the out-put of urea and uric acid with a 
perceptible increase of indican. Investigations with these 
waves on the blood demonstrated an increase of hemoglobin, 
leucocytes and red blood-corpuscles. Unfortunately, the 
foregoing observations cannot be accepted as evidence of 
the action of magnetic waves insomuch as the sinusoidal 
current taken from the magnetic poles was also employed. 

A very pertinent fact however, illuminates these ob- 
servations of King 13 . Referring to the treatment of con- 
stipation, he says, "I have been obliged at first to use the 
sinusoidal current as taken from this machine until there is 
established a more or less regular movement of the bowels. 
When this is accomplished, the patient is again placed in the 
regular magnetic field, with a result of continued improve- 
ment so far as regularity of movement is concerned and in 
general improvement." The insignificance of the foregoing 
will become apparent by reading the subsequent chapter. 

Magnets are now used for removing foreign bodies (iron 
and steel) from the eye in a simple and efficient manner. 
The electro-magnet is equally efficient in diagnosis. Definite 
sensations of pain in the eye when the circuit of the electro- 
magnet is made or broken, suggests the presence of mag- 
netic metal. 

The sideroscope, a magnetic needle suspended upon a 
silk thread, will also assist in the detection of foreign bodies 
in the eye. Sellheim 14 , after introducing a soft-iron catheter 
inside the uterus studied the movements of the latter under 
the influence of a powerful magnet applied outside. The 
force was sufficient to straighten a retroflexed uterus. The 

136 



M a g n e t i c Force 

alternate lifting and dropping of the uterus was utilized as 
a species of massage and by mobilizing the organ, adhesions 
from inflammations were prevented. 



137 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 



CHAPTER VIII. 

MAGNETIC FORCE. 

PHYSICS. 

MAGNETIC POLES — MAGNETIC FORCE — MAGNETIC MATERIALS — DIA- 
MAGNETISM — DEMAGNETIZATION — THEORIES — MAGNETIC FIELD — 
MECHANICAL EFFECTS — TERRESTRIAL MAGNETISM. 

Only relevant data concerning this subject will be 
briefly discussed. 

Magnetic poles. — The north pole of the magnet, is also 
called the positive or plus ( +) pole and the south pole, is also 
known as the negative or minus ( — ) pole. 

One of the fundamental laws is that: Like magnetic 
poles repel one another and unlike poles attract one another. 
This is similar to the law of attractions and repulsions of 
electric charges. The two poles are inseparable, i. e., a 
magnet with only one pole is impossible. 

Magnetic force. — Force is that which moves or tends 
to move matter. The force which a magnet attracts or 
repels another magnet or a magnetic material is known as 
magnetic force. 

The force exerted between two magnetic poles is pro- 
portional to the product of their strengths and is inversely 
proportional to the square of the distance between them. 

Magnetic and non-magnetic materials. — Any sub- 
stance in which magnetism may be induced and which is 
therefore attracted by a magnet is known as magnetic ma- 
terial. The following are recognized as magnetic: iron (the 
strongest known magnetic material), steel, nickel and cobalt. 
Salts of iron and other metals, porcelain, paper and oxygen 

138 



Physics of Magnetic Force 

are feebly attracted by a powerful magnet. Materials which 
are neutral as regards magnetism are referred to as non- 
magnetic. 

Diamagnetism. — Diamagnetic bodies refer to substances 
(bismuth, antimony, phosphorus, copper) which are appar- 
ently repelled from the poles of a magnet. 

Induced magnetism. — If magnetism is communicated 
to a magnetic material without actual contact, the sub- 
stance is said to be magnetized by induction. Induction 
takes place along certain directions known as lines of mag- 
netic induction or lines of magnetic force. The latter act 
through a vacuum and air and through all materials except- 
ing those in which magnetism may be induced. Magnetism 
set up by an electric current is known as electromagnetism. 

Demagnetization. — If a magnet is struck by a series 
of blows or heated to a temperature about red heat, for un- 
known reasons, the greater part of its magnetism disappears. 

According to Bidwell, light falling upon recently demag- 
netized iron produces an immediate revival of magnetism. 

Coercive force. — Some materials are more easily mag- 
netized and demagnetized than others. In such instances 
it is assumed that, there is some force known as coercive 
force or retentivity, opposing magnetization and demag- 
netization. 

Saturation. — A magnet when fully magnetized is said 
to be saturated. When the latter has been attained, it 
grows weaker for a definite time and if left alone, the mag- 
netism finally becomes permanent in strength. 

Theory or magnetism. — Magnetism is not a fluid. 
When a magnet magnetizes steel it loses none of its own 
magnetism. A fluid is incapable of propagating itself indefi- 
nitely without loss. The theory now accepted is that, mole- 
cules of magnetic material are magnets by nature and when 

139 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

unmagnetized, the molecules are arranged in a haphazard 
manner so that they neutralize each other's external mag- 
netic effects. If this material is now subjected to the in- 
fluence of magnetic force, the molecules become so arranged 
that their poles point in the same direction (Fig. 31). 

Magnetic field. — The space surrounding a magnet 
pervaded by the magnetic forces is known as the magnetic 
field and is most intense near the poles of the magnet. 



Fig. 31. — Illustrating the theory of magnetism. In the upper figure the mole- 
cules owing to their disorderly arrangement have lost their magnetism but when 
the molecules are arranged end to end, so that the N-seeking poles all point in one 
direction and the S-seeking poles in the other as in the lower figure, the molecules 
are magnetized. 

Mechanical effects of magnetization.— When an 
iron bar is strongly magnetized it increases by t^oWo of its 
length, and when the magnetizing force is stronger, it again 
contracts. The increment in length is due to the molecules 
setting themselves with their longest directions parallel to 
the length of the bar (Fig. 31). Nickel contracts slightly 
when magnetized. When a bar is magnetized or de-mag- 
netized, a faint metallic clink in the bar is heard. 

These observations prove that in magnetization there 
is a disturbance in the arrangement of the molecules. In 
what is known as the magnetization of light, it has been 
found that a ray of polarized light passing through certain 
substances in a magnetic field has the direction of its vibra- 
tions changed. 

Terrestrial magnetism. — The earth is a powerful 

140 



Physics of Magnetic Force 

magnet and has its magnetic poles. From the earth's north 
magnetic pole in the Southern Hemisphere, a huge stream 
of magnetic flux is constantly flowing through the atmos- 
phere until it reaches the earth's south magnetic pole in the 
Northern Hemisphere. These magnetic streamings pass 
along paths of least resistance. The presence of magnetic 
oxides of iron and masses of iron or steel facilitates their 
passage. Thus, the flux-streams are concentrated around 
structural steel buildings and railroad tracks. 

A compass needle so suspended as to be able to move 
either in a vertical or horizontal plane inclines or dips 
toward the earth. There is no dip on the earth's magnetic 
equator but it increases toward the poles. Directly over the 
latter, the angle of inclination is exactly 90 . 

Iron bars set upright for a long time acquire magnetism 
from the earth. The earth's magnetism varies from place 
to place on the surface of the earth and there are daily, an- 
nual, secular and irregular variations, which are associated 
with modifying solar activity. Magnetic storms have been 
attributed to a number of unusual spots on the sun, volcanic 
eruptions and electric currents in the atmosphere. Many 
attempts have been made to explain the cause of the earth's 
magnetism. It has been attributed to the presence of large 
quantities of magnetized iron below the earth's surface, to 
induction from the sun (which Biot claimed is itself a power- 
ful magnet), and to currents of electricity flowing around 
the earth. The latter, the theory of Ampere, is the most 
suggestive. 



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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



CHAPTER IX. 

MAGNETIC FORCE. 

PHYSIOLOGICAL PHYSICS. 

ANIMAL TISSUES — MAGNETISM AND VISCERAL TONE — ACTION ON 
VOLUNTARY MUSCLES — VISCERAL ATTRACTION AND REPULSION — 
VISCERAL DEMAGNETIZATION — LOCAL DEMAGNETIZATION — TRANS- 
MISSION OE EORCE — MISCELLANEOUS EEEECTS. 

It is the object of the author in this chapter to submit 
a few observations in a direction believed to be substantially 
new, and to present succinctly in the subsequent chapter 
some conclusions based on these premises. The writer 
acknowledges "the incompleteness of his observations which 
have only extended over a period of three months and he also 
admits that his limited knowledge of physics deters him from 
interpreting more fully the observed phenomena. 

Hypotheses have been eliminated and only facts are 
presented. 

When Kirchoff, thrust between the image of the sun from 
the heliostat and the tinted band of his spectroscope, a 
flame of sodium vapor, and instead of the expected brighten- 
ing, saw the band darkened, he left his laboratory hastily 
with the words, "That seems to me a fundamental fact." 

If certain fundamental facts have been established by 
the author he anticipates their elaboration by physicists, 
psychologists and others more competent than himself. 

Some of the author's observations would have been im- 
possible of attainment, if it were not for the fact that the 
reflexes of the organs (page 120) can now be recognized ob- 
jectively. 

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Physiological Physics 

Considering the discredit cast on the therapeutic employment 
of the magnetic force, all consideration of this subject will be 
evaded, so that the reader is constrained to formulate his own 
conclusions. 

My investigations were made with feeble and powerful 
magnets (Fig. 32). 

Animal tissues. — Any material in which magnetism may 
be induced and which is therefore attracted by a magnet is 
magnetic material. 




Fig. 32. — Giant and smaller electromagnet. The giant magnet has a lifting 
power of approximately 400 pounds to the square inch. The smaller electromagnet 
has a little over one-fourth the strength of the giant magnet. 

If any of the human tissues are suspended on a light silk 
thread near a magnet, the latter will attract one pole of the 
tissue and repel the other. The north pole of the magnet 
repels the north pole of the tissue and attracts its south pole. 

The foregoing effect varies with the tissues employed 
and is best exhibited by nerves, whereas the least effect is 
noted with the spinal cord. 

The same magnetic attraction is exhibited by the mem- 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

braneous coverings of the nervous system, organs and 
muscles. It has always been contended that these mem- 
branes act as electric insulators to retain the normal quantity 
of electricity in the foregoing structures. One knows that, 
magnetism induced in a bar of iron may induce magnetism in 
another piece so that a magnet may be made to support a 
number of nails end to end, each of which has become a 
magnet by induction. 

The foregoing effect may also be observed with the 
tissues. 

An ordinary bar or horse-shoe magnet will also attract 
the tissue although the force thus exhibited is very feeble 
in comparison with an electromagnet. The iron-content 
of the tissues has without doubt some effect on the results 
yet, the liver and spleen which in the norm show a high 
content of iron exhibit a feebler power of attraction than the 
nerves. Even after the tissue has been immersed in a 
solution to dissolve any iron which may be present, the 
tissue is attracted to the magnet although less readily than 
before. Here, one must assume some change in the mole- 
cular arrangement of the tissue. 

Fresh tissues do not show the foregoing properties of 
attraction or repulsion. The tissue must first be allowed 
to dessicate naturally. If the tissues are artincally dessicated 
the results are compromised. The tissue must be deprived 
of blood. The latter although containing iron is diamag- 
netic. 

Experimenting largely with nerves, the results were 
never uniform. This may have been caused by varying 
degrees of dessication or for other reasons which I do not 
know. Thus, as this manuscript is about to go to press, 
I repeated my earlier experiments with negative results. 
Unfortunately, time will not permit me to determine the 
cause for this discrepancy. 

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Physiological Physics 

Severed nerves in chloroformed animals proximally 
connected with the spinal cord, exhibited less magnetic 
attraction than nerves removed from the body and suspended 
by a thread. The reason for this is noted on page 159. 

About the year 18 19, Oersted, in investigating the re- 
lation existing between magnetism and electricity found 
that, when an electric current flows through a conductor, a 
magnetic flux is created which makes the conductor a magnet. 
The conductor loses its magnetic properties as soon as the 
current ceases to flow. The nature of the material through 
which the current flows is of no importance. In my investi- 
gations using various organs and tissues as conductors, a 
decided difference was noted in the deflection of the needle. 

The close resemblance between electricity and magnetism 
was further emphasized by the discovery of Faraday, in 1831. 
The latter found that, whenever lines of magnetic flux are 
caused to cut or pass through conductors so connected as to 
form closed circuits, currents of electricity are generated. 

Action or magnetism on visceral tone. — On pages 62 
and 124 reference was made respecting what is understood 
by tone of the organs. Perhaps the most conspicuous 
physiologic manifestation exhibited by the forces is that 
of increasing vital tone. 

In this respect, the magnetic force is insuperable. 

On page 121, the reflexes of the organs were likewise 
discussed. It was noted that different stimuli applied to 
definite regions of the spinal cord would cause either a con- 
traction or dilatation of various organs. 

The stomach was employed as a vehicle for the exhibition 
of such effects. When the stomach-tone is employed as a 
test for the action of the forces, a moderately thin subject must 
be selected and the entire abdomen must yield a tympanitic 
tone on percussion. A normal subject must likewise be selected 

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P r o g r e s s i ' v e S p ondylotherapy 

otherwise the results will be modified. Percussion must be 
executed during the time the patient stands. No results can be 
expected in any other posture. 

Now, in the application of the stimulus to the region of 
the 7th cervical vertebra, two effects could be elicited : 
increased tone of the stomach or the latter plus contraction 
of the organ. 




Fig. 33 •■ — Illustrating the area of the stomach by percussion before (continuous 
line) and after concussion of the 7th cervical spine (broken line). The reduction 
in area is known as the stomach reflex of contraction. 

The former effect was ascertained by dullness on per- 
cussion (page 123) and the latter, by dullness plus recession 
of the lower border of the stomach. Heat, light, radium, 
X-rays and magnetism, when permitted to act in the region 

146 






Physiological Physics 

of the 7th cervical spine produced a dullness corresponding 
to the stomach approximating the anterior abdominal wall. 
With all the forces excepting magnetism, this dullness was 
of brief duration and was soon succeeded by the normal 
tympanitic tone on percussion. If the stimulus employed 
was concussion by aid of an electric hammer striking a series 
of rapid blows varying in strength from 6 to 12 pounds, in 
association with dullness of the stomach the organ became 
contracted (Fig. 33). 

The latter, known as the stomach reflex of contraction, 
remains contracted for about 15 minutes after which time 
it gradually resumes its former position. The longest dura- 
tion of the latter reflex noted by concussion was 20 minutes. 

It is evident that the duration and the amplitude of the 
reflex are determined by the vigor of the muscular fibers 
of the stomach. When the magnetic flux is permitted to 
act on the region of the 7th cervical vertebra, unlike the 
other forces which are transitory in action, it will produce 
a dullness of the stomach lasting for many hours without 
causing the stomach to recede. 

All forces show this action (of temporary duration), 
on the tone of the stomach applied at the spinal region 
mentioned or at a distance from the subject but the mag- 
netic force will exhibit such action lasting for hours and at 
a greater distance. Thus, with the small electro-magnet 
(Fig. 32), this dullness of the stomach can be elicited at a 
distance of 30 feet and with the large magnet (Fig. 32), 
at a distance greater than 60 feet. In both instances the 
dullness persisted for a variable period of time after the 
magnetic flux has ceased to flow. 

If a patient enters a room in which the magnetic flux 
has been allowed to flow for several minutes, a stomach 
previously showing a tympanitic tone on percussion, will 

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Progressive Spondylotherapy 

yield a dull sound within 20 seconds. The latter dullness 
is of considerable duration. One of the most important 
observations concerns the conveyance of the magnetic 
force by an individual. If an individual exposes himself for 
about one minute to the flux of a giant magnet and then 
enters another room (time should not exceed 30 seconds), 
and stands alongside an individual with exposed abdomen, 
percussion will demonstrate in the latter a dullness of the 
stomach. This dullness will last for several minutes. 




' Fig. 34. — Apparatus for recording wireless messages with the leg of a frog; A, 
nerve; B, muscle. The attached tracing represents a record. 



No dullness ensues until the individual exposed to 
the flux is alongside of the person examined. It is 
evident therefore that the action is one of propinquity 
and not due to the influence of the flux at a distance. 



The augmented tone of the musculature of the stomach may 
be accepted as a delicate physiologic test for the presence of 
the magnetic force. In other words it can be used as a mag- 
netometer. 

148 



Physiological Physics 

A frog is used as a delicate physiologic test for 
strychnin and the same animal is used for detecting ad- 
renalin which dilates the frog's pupil. Another delicate 
test for adrenalin is the increased tone produced in the 
stomach-musculature of the frog whereas in mammals, 
the effect is to relax the muscle. 

Fig. 34, shows a frog's-leg receiver recently em- 
ployed by a French physiologist for recording wireless 
messages. The sciatic nerve of the leg is connected 
into the microphone-circuit of the receiver. One end 
of the leg is fixed to a base and the other end con- 
nected with a pivoted lever which records on a drum 
revolved by clock-work, the contractions of the muscles 
caused by the electrical impulses. 

If the region of the 7 th cervical vertebra is first concussed 
and then the body (in proximity to the magnet) is exposed 
to the magnetic flux, the stomach will remain contracted 
for hours. In other words, the magnetic force will fix the 
organ in the position in which it has been placed by con- 
cussion. 

One may employ the same maneuver in fixing the heart, 
aorta, liver and other organs either in a state of contraction 
or dilatation. These effects may be prolonged by color 
(page 130). The best results however, are attained by 
allowing the magnetic flux to act for several minutes at 
the regions of the spine where the reflexes are elicited by 
concussion. 

The researches of the author show that the organs 
may be made to contract or dilate by irritating the skin 
over the organ. The reflexes thus evoked explain ou/ 
empirical methods of treatment by liniments, poultices, 
water and a host of physical remedies. The skin re- 
flexes are infinitesimal in amplitude and duration when 
compared with the reflexes evoked from the spinal 
region which last for hours. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The skin reflexes may, however, be fixed for a greater 
duration of time if the magnetic flux is allowed to flow 
during their elicitation. 

Thus, the heart reflex of contraction by scratching 
the skin over the heart (allowing the magnetic flux to 
act only during the scratching process) will last 5 minutes 
compared with a duration of 20 seconds before the flux is 
allowed to flow. 

All the skin reflexes after the patient has been ex- 
posed to the flux are greater in amplitude and duration. 

One may formulate the following constant: The dur- 
ation and amplitude of a visceral reflex is in direction pro- 
portion to the intensity of the magnetic flux and its proximity to 
the spinal region governing a given reflex. 



Fig. 35. — Tracings of the pulse; A, before the tip of the electromagnet is placed 
at the 7th cervical spine; B, during the time the flux is first allowed to flow and C, 
about 30 seconds thereafter. 

The effect of the flux on the heart is easily ascertained 
by palpation of the pulse before and during the action of 
the flux. With the patient in juxtaposition to a large 
electro-magnet, the pulse becomes feeble and is inhibited 
or nearly so. These effects are accentuated when the mag- 
netic force is allowed to act directly on the region of the 
7th cervical vertebra (Fig. 35). 

It is indeed strange how little of the magnetic flux is 
necessary to increase the tone of the organs. An ordinary 
bar or ^orse-shoe magnet impinging on the stomach, heart 
or any of the organs will at once (by increasing the tone 
of the organs), bring out an area of increased dullness. 

The organs are ordinarily in a varying state of tonic- 
ity. The tone of the organ may be normal (ortho tonic), 

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Physiological Physics 

increased (hypertonic), diminished (hypotonic) or ab- 
sent (atonic). 

A relaxed organ will yield a smaller area of dullness 
than an organ which is in a state of tone. To accurately 
reproduce the area occupied by an organ, it must be put 
in a condition of augmented tone, otherwise percussion 
will yield untrustworthy results. 




Fig. 36. — Illustrating the employment of an ordinary horseshoe magnet for out- 
lining the boundaries of the heart and liver. The broken lines show the boundaries 
before, and the continuous lines, after the use of the magnet held by the patient in 
the center of the organ. The stomach in the norm cannot be defined by percussion 
owing to the tympanitic quality of its sound. In this illustration, the magnet 
placed in the stomach region caused a dullness of the organ thus permitting jts 
delimitation. 



In Fig. 36, the organs are percussed before and 
after an ordinary magnet is held by the patient in the 
region of the organs. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



In Fig. 37, the aorta, heart, liver and spleen, are 
percussed before and after the flux of an electromagnet 
is allowed to flow. In the latter instance, the patient 
stands in juxtaposition but not in contact with the 
maernet. 




Fig. 37. — Percussion of the heart and liver before (broken lines) and after (con- 
tinuous lines) the subject is in proximity to a giant magnet. The outline of the 
stomach was determined during the flow of the magnetic flux. 

In a subject with a responsive stomach-muscle, one may 
increase the tone of the stomach (as shown by dullness on 
percussion) at a distance of over 80 feet. 

The foregoing stomach-reaction represents the basis 
of most of my investigations. 

The stomach cannot be defined by our usual methods 
of percussion. The tympanitic tone of the organ cannot 

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Physiological Physics 

be accurately differentiated from the tympanitic tone 
of the intestines. It must be observed that the tym- 
panitic tone of the intestines is partially changed to 
dullness by the magnetic flux (owing to the tone im- 
parted to them), but the dullness is not as pronounced 
as that of the stomach hence the possibility of differ- 
entiation by percussion. 

It has been shown (page 123) that, by artificial stimula- 
tion of the vagus, one may, by increasing the tone of the 
stomach, cause the latter to yield a dullness on percussion. 
If, however, one injects ^ grain of atropin (which para- 
lyzes the motor endings of the vagus), artificial stimulation 
of the vagus after the manner cited is incapable of increas- 
ing the tone of the stomach. In other words, one cannot 
elicit the stomach reflex. If, after atropin is injected and 
the patient's body is in proximity to a powerful electro- 
magnet, the tone of the stomach is nevertheless restored 
as evidenced by the dullness on percussion. 

The foregoing is noted with reference to all the organs 
supplied by the vagus and is surprising considering the fact 
that the magnetic force can restore tone quite independent 
of nerve-force. This statement demands modification as 
shown on page 164. 

If an individual is in an electromagnetic field between 
like poles of two electromagnets no dullness of the stomach 
can be elicited and the same effect is manifest if the poles 
are unlike (Fig. 38). 

If the dullness of the stomach is evoked by exposure 
to the streamings of either the north or south pole of a 
magnet, it can be made to disappear at once by exposure 
to the pole opposite to that which first caused the dull- 
ness. 

The foregoing is in accordance with one of the laws of 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

magnetic force, — the poles of opposite name neutralize 
one another. 

Exposure of the subject to two like poles of a magnet 
multiplies the intensity of the dullness; the streamings 
being concentrated anteriorly on the stomach- region. 




Fig. 38. — Illustrating the forces producing attraction between unlike poles and 
repulsion between like poles. The interposition of the body in both instances 
yields negative results owing to neutralization of unlike poles and the repulsion of 
like poles. 



It has been observed that whereas the magnetic force 
increases the tone of the organs it neither contracts nor 
dilates them. 

In my earlier investigations errors of interpretation 
ensued with reference to the foregoing. 

Thus, when the magnetic force was allowed to act for 
several minutes in the region of the 7th cervical spine, 
prolapsed stomachs were hauled up a considerable distance. 
In all such instances, I was dealing with relaxed (hypotonic 

154 



Physiological P h y s i c s 

or atonic viscera) organs. In the norm, however, such 
effects are not observed; the tone of the organ is augmented 
but there is no change in its position. 

An important fact in the use of the magnetic force is 
that there is no danger of exhausting the tone of the organs 
nor in fixing a reflex from excessive stimulation and further- 
more, in increasing the tone and in fixing a reflex, a seance 
need not exceed five minutes. 

Physicists have demonstrated the fact that, under con- 
stant magnetizing force the magnetism will go on slowly 
and slightly increasing for a long time, a phenomenon called 
magnetic creeping. 

Action on voluntary muscles. — -In considering the 
action of the magnetic flux on the organs, we were dealing 
with visceral muscle (pages 7 and 147). It is not easy to 
gauge the action of magnetic force on voluntary muscles 
insomuch as it is difficult to exclude expectant attention 
and the personal equation. However certain phenomena 
are quite evident. 

The magnetic force is in no sense an excitant but a tone- 
producing force. Making and breaking the current of an 
electromagnet is without any effect and imparts no tone 
to the organs. With the patient approximating a giant 
magnet, fully 10 seconds elapse before the tympanitic 
sound of the stomach is converted into dullness. 

The magnetic force permitted to act on voluntary 
muscles gives absolutely no evidence of its action despite 
the fact that augmented tone is imparted to them just as 
it is to visceral muscle. 

If, one percusses any voluntary muscle during the time 
the percussed part is adjacent to the source of the magnetic 
flux, the muscle bulges and in susceptible subjects a spas- 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

modic contraction ensues which may persist even after the 
flux ceases to flow. 

The biceps (arm) is a suitable muscle for such experi- 
mentation. The same phenomena may be observed in 
the exposed muscles of a vivisected animal. 

If a relaxed scrotum is exposed to the flux there is no 
retraction of the testes but, if during the time of the expos- 
ure, the cremasteric reflex is elicited several times, the scro- 
tum shrinks quite perceptibly. The use of electricity is 
more exact. 

One may note that, the reaction of the muscles is accen- 
tuated when the electricity is applied during the time the 
part is in proximity to an electromagnet. 

The augmented reaction is quite evident and persists 
after the magnetic force is discontinued. The foregoing 
results are only noted after the parts have been exposed to 
the magnetism for about one minute. The augmented 
reaction depends on which pole of the magnet is directed 
toward the part acted upon by the electricity and which 
pole of the latter is used. 

If the muscle is first demagnetized (page 161), the in- 
tensity of the muscle-reaction becomes less evident. 

Visceral attraction and repulsion. — If one first 
determines the lower border of the liver by percussion, 
and fixes at a definite point below the site of dullness, the 
tip of a giant electromagnet and again determines the lower 
liver-border, the latter will be found to descend one or 
more centimeters during the time of the flow of the mag- 
netic flux. The moment the flow of the latter ceases, the 
liver-border regains its former position. 

The following facts were determined: 

i. The tip of the magnet placed below the stomach, 

156 



Physiological Physics 

spleen and kidneys will elicit the same phenomenon during 
the flow of the flux. 

2. Placing the tip above the anatomic site of the ab- 
dominal organs cited, the organs rise only during the flow 
of the flux. 

3. If the liver (and the same applies to the other ab- 
dominal organs), is first charged (for about one minute) 
with the north pole of the electromagnet and the tip of 
the latter pole is placed below the liver-border, instead of 
a descent of the latter, it rises. In other words, it is re- 
pelled. 

4. If the liver is first charged from the south pole, 
the degree of its descent with the north pole is greater than 
when it is not charged at all. 

5. If any of the spinous processes are concussed (ex- 
cepting the 7th cervical spine), for one or more minutes, 
it is impossible to cause any descent of the liver, stomach or 
spleen. It is known that jarring or a few sharp strokes 
of a hammer may cause the greater part of the magnetism 
to disappear in a magnet. 

If one however, concusses the 7th cervical spine which 
stimulates the vagus and causes the liver, spleen and stomach 
to contract (reflexes of contraction), the mechanic agitation 
is counterbalanced by the stimulating impulses conveyed 
to the organs in question. 

If the region between the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines is 
concussed and the tip of the magnet is placed at a fixed 
point below the liver, the latter is repelled. Concussion 
of this region stimulates the sympathetic nerves (at the 
expense of the pneumogastric nerves), and has a conspicu- 
ous action in reducing the nerve-tone of the organs (page 
162). 

The heart has an important influence on the position 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

of the abdominal organs as one can readily determine (se- 
lecting the liver for demonstration) by percussion. This 
influence is modified according to whether the heart-region 
is positively (N-pole) or negatively charged (S-pole). 

6. If the tip of the magnet is placed at a fixed point 
below the spleen, the descent of the latter is greater at its 
anterior extremity than in the center of the organ. 

Regarding the spleen (like other organs) as a magnetic 
structure, its greatest attractive force would be at its 
anterior and posterior ends. 

In attempting to control by the X-rays the results 
obtained on the organs by percussion, I found it was 
often impossible. It was found that the X-rays in a pow- 
erful magnetic field were deflected from the target of 
the tube first in one and then in the other direction ac- 
cording to whether the north or south pole of the electro- 
magnet was presented toward the tube (Fig. 39). These 
effects were only observed after the tube had reached a 
certain degree of hardness. 

The original theory of Stokes, that the Roentgen 
rays consisted of sets of ether-ripples was generally 
accepted despite the fact that there was no evidence of 
refraction, reflection or diffraction. Failure of the most 
powerful magnetic fields to create deviation favored an 
etheric rather than a corpuscular theory. More recent 
investigations of Bragg 15 , seem to prove that the X-rays 
are of two kinds; reflecting and non-reflecting rays. 

Electro-optical phenomena are many. Faraday, 
discovered that a wave of light polarized in a certain 
plane can be twisted round by the action of a magnet 
so that the vibrations are executed in a different plane. 

In 1877, Kerr, showed that a ray of polarized light 
is likewise rotated when reflected at the surface of a 
magnet. 

Kundt, demonstrated that the plane of polarization 
of light-waves is also rotated if the light traverses an 

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Physiological Physics 

almost transparent film of iron placed transversely in a 
magnet field. 

Attempts to prove visceral attraction and repulsion 
in animal-experiments were negative. Further investi- 
gations demonstrated the reason for the latter. In the 
human, a few whiffs of chloroform or ether even when 
mixed with oil of orange (page 82), destroys at once any 
downward pull of the viscera by the magnetic force. If a 
solution of cocain is used in the nose, the organ (e. g., liver) 
instead of being pulled downward is actually repelled. 




Fig. 39. — Illustrating deflection of X-rays in a powerful magnetic field. The 
upper tube shows the rays before the flux is permitted to flow. This illustration 
inadequately exhibits the pronounced deflection associated with a tube of a definite 
degree of hardness. 

Fright or fear likewise destroys the downward pull on the 
organ. The emotions increase the adrenalin in the blood 
which annihilates the tone of the organs (page 8). 

Experiments with the exsected stomach were equally 
negative in accordance with the well-known physiologic 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

observation that, smooth muscle cut out of the body passes 
at once into a state of tonic contraction lasting for hours. 

The physiologist who discredits observations made 
without the domain of his laboratory seems to forget 
that disease is practically an experiment of nature under 
abnormal conditions. All physiologic experiments made 
in the laboratory are equally conducted under adverse 
conditions. 




Fig. 40. — Helix and coil of wire (indicated by arrow) for demagnetization. 



Visceral demagnetization. — Demagnetization is ef- 
fected by magnetizing in opposite directions and, by decreas- 
ing the intensity of the current, the magnetism is gradually 
reduced to zero. In other word, to demagnetize an object, 
one subjects it to a series of cycles of diminishing intensity. 

160 



Physiological Physics 

With the alternating current, a rheostat is the only 
adjunct necessary for demagnetization. 

If only the constant current is at command, one may 
use a transformer or a cheaper substitute consisting of a 
double-throw pole-switch arrangement and gradually 
reduce the current by means of a water-rheostat. 

To demagnetize the body, the author employs a universal 
and a local method. In the universal method, a demagnet- 
izing coil is used consisting of a helix 6 feet in length and 
of sufficient diameter to enclose an individual. It consists 
of 1 88 turns of bare copper wire wound on a wooden frame 
(Fig. 41). 

In the local method, a coil of wire is wound around a 
piece of soft iron (Fig. 40). 

If an individual enters the helix and demagnetization 
is executed for several minutes, it is impossible to percuss 
the stomach even though the vagus is stimulated artific- 
ially. This action may persist for hours. The abdom- 
inal organs (liver, spleen, stomach), lie lower and it is im- 
possible to elicit visceral attraction and repulsion (page 156). 

Local demagnetization. — It has been shown that the 
organs are dominated by two sets of nerve-fibers which 
are opposite in action and which for convenience may be 
grouped as vagus and sympathetic-fibers. 

The vagus-fibers maintain the organs in a state of 
contraction whereas the sympathetic-fibers strive to keep 
them in a state of dilatation. When both sets of fibers 
are in a state of physiologic tone the organs are neither 
contracted nor dilated but in a condition of equipoise. 

If we stimulate the vagus-fibers at the 7 th cervical 
spine, we contract the heart, aorta, stomach, liver and 
spleen. 

If one stimulates the sympathetic-fibers at a point 

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Progressive S p ondytotherapy 

between the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines, there is a dilatation 
of the foregoing structures. 

By the foregoing maneuver, we have imparted tone to 
the vagus or sympathetic fibers. 

The magnetic force is the equivalent of tone (page 124) 
insomuch as by its use a like effect is attained. 

Demagnetization corresponds to the removal of tone. If 
one applies the extremity of the iron rod (Fig. 40) to the 
7 th cervical spine and executes demagnetization for several 
minutes, the tone of the organs supplied by the vagus- 
fibers is annihilated and the action of the sympathetic- 
fibers on the organs becomes dominant. 

In consequence of the foregoing, percussion will show: 

1. Dilatation of the heart and aorta; 

2. Enlargment of the stomach, liver and spleen; 

3. Dilatation of the intra-abdominal veins. 

If one removes the tone of the stomach by demag- 
netization, how can one demonstrate enlargment of 
the organ by percussion? The magnetic force neither 
contracts nor enlarges an organ but merely fixes it in a 
definite position. After demagnetization of the vagus, 
the flux is directed toward the region of the stomach 
until it acquires sufficient tone to yield a dullness on 
percussion. After this manner, dilatation and descent 
of the organ may be demonstrated. 

The abstraction of tone from the vagus is easily demon- 
strated. 

First of all, one must know that, if pressure is made in 
the region of the 7 th cervical spine the pulse can no longer 
be felt if a certain degree of pressure is executed. The 
greater the tone of the vagus, the more pressure is necessary 
to stop the pulse. 

If, in a given case, 10 kilograms of pressure are neces- 

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Physiological Physics 

sary to arrest the pulse at the wrist by means of my spondylo- 
pressor (Fig. i), after demagnetizing the vagus , at the 
7th cervical spine, the pulse will be inhibited with a pres- 
sure of 3 or 4 kilograms. 




Fig. 41 —Illustrating the area of stomach-dullness incident to the ingestion of 
water. _ With the ingestion of 9 ounces of water, this dullness continues for about 
one minute but it persists if the tone of the organ is removed by demagnetization 
of the vagus. 

Another simple method is to ingest 9 ounces of water. 
In the norm, this produces a dullness (Fig. 41) not exceed- 
ing one minute. If, during the time the water is ingested 
and demagnetization is executed at the 7 th cervical verte- 
bra, the dullness will persist during demagnetization and 
for some time thereafter until the vagus which controls 
the output of water from the stomach has again acquired 
tone. The latter may be acquired at once by exposing 
the subject to the magnetic force. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

If one desires to remove the tone of the sympathetic 
fibers, the rod of the instrument (Fig. 40) is fixed between 
the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines and the effects noted are: 

1. Contraction of the heart and aorta; 

2. Contraction of the liver, stomach and spleen; 

3. Contraction of the intra-abdominal vessels. 

In the latter maneuver, the vagus-fibers become pre- 
dominant. 

After the tone has been abstracted from the vagus or 
sympathetic fibers it may be restored at once by charging 
the former with the magnetic flux at the 7th cervical spine 
and the latter, between the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines. 

It has already been shown (page 156) that, there is such 
a condition which I have referred to as visceral attraction 
and repulsion. 

If one demagnetizes the spleen or liver by applying 
the rod of the apparatus (Fig. 40) over either organ, neither 
visceral attraction nor repulsion is possible. In demagnet- 
izing the liver after the foregoing manner, the organ drops 
lower but does not enlarge. 

When demagnetization is attempted over the heart- 
region, there is a drop of all the abdominal organs including 
the kidneys. 

Transmission of force.* — When one strikes a series 
of blows corresponding to the 7th cervical spine, the vagus 
is stimulated (page 123). 

Physiologists have always contented themselves with 
the generic statement that, if a nerve or muscle is irritated 
a stimulation ensues. 

My observations show that, stimulation is equivalent 
to the discharge of force. The latter statement can be readily 
demonstrated. 

*Energy, vide preface and page 115. 

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Physiological Physics 

If, during the time the 7th cervical spine of one subject 
is struck a series of blows with a rubber-hammer, and the 
stomach-region in another subject standing in juxtaposition 
to the first subject is percussed, a dullness can be demon- 
strated. This dullness is of limited duration (about 30 
seconds), but can be made to reappear by repetition of the 
blows. It will also be found that, the increased tone pro- 
duced by the transmitted force increases the tone in all the 
organs supplied by the vagus hence, delimitation of the 
latter by percussion will be facilitated (page 184). 

Such increase in the tone is of limited duration (30 
seconds) hence the execution of percussion must not be 
delayed. 

Concussion of other vertebrae is negative insomuch as 
the effect is tantamount to demagnetization (page 160). 
Force may be shown to be transmitted in the following ways : 

1. By contracting the muscles of one arm in juxta- 
position to the stomach-region. When the two arms are 
forcibly flexed, no dullness of the stomach ensues. It is 
necessary to determine the reason for the latter, as it will 
explain a host of phenomena. 

Physiologists have established the following facts : 

a. Electrical currents appear in the body when a 
muscle or nerve is active and such currents are inti- 
mately associated with the functional condition of the 
tissue. 

b. These action-currents correspond to the general 
law that, every active portion of nerve or muscle main- 
tains a negative relation toward the resting part. In 
other words, the active muscle and nerve show a nega- 
tive electrical reaction toward the resting muscle and 
nerve. 

c. The action-currents of muscle and nerve are 
sufficiently strong to have a stimulating action of their 
own. 

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Progressive Spondylotherapy 

It is assumed by the author that, the force generated 
say in the one arm is negative and in the resting stomach- 
muscle it. is positive the result being contraction of the 
stomach-musculature. When the muscles of both arms 
are synchronously contracted a number of times, there is 
a discharge of two negative forces which neutralize one 
another with negative effects on the stomach-muscle. 

If two north or two south poles of two magnets are 
directed in the region of the stomach, no dullness of the 
stomach is elicited. 

The foregoing will explain subsequent phenomena. 

2. If the muscles of one arm of the subject (in prox- 
imity to his stomach-region) are brought to contraction 
by an electric current, a dullness of the stomach ensues 
but if the muscles of both arms are simultaneously con- 
tracted, there is no dullness. 

Using one person as a subject and contracting the mus- 
cles of another subject (while the arms are in proximity 
to the stomach-region of the first subject), like effects 
may be noted. 

Striking the arm-muscles is negative in its results. 

3. If any part of one subject is brought in proximity 
to the stomach-region of another subject no dullness en- 
sues except when the heart-region is brought into such relation. 
The contact must be immediate. If, however, the activity 
of the heart is augmented by inhalation of amyl nitrite, 
the effect is noted at a distance of several inches. 

4. Stimulation of the muscles of a dead frog (the 
muscles still responding to electricity), will produce the 
effects noted when stimulating living muscles. 

5. If the beating heart of a frog is removed from the 
latter, and placed on glass or a board and brought in im- 
mediate contact with the stomach-region of a subject, 

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Physiological Physics 

dullness of the stomach is at once elicited. Thus, with an 
exposure of one-half minute of the beating heart to the 
stomach-region, the dullness of the stomach will persist 
for one-half minute. 




Fig. 42. — Apparatus for recording stomach-contractions incident to the action 
of transmitted energy. It consists of a stomach-tube to one end of which a rubber- 
balloon is fixed and to the other end a pump for inflating the balloon in the stomach. 
The pump and stomach-tube are connected with a piece of V-glass tubing. The 
stomach-contractions are transmitted to a tambour, the lever of which makes the 
record on a revolving cylinder. 

6. If, say a leg-muscle of a frog is removed and then 
divided by bringing the cut surface into contact with the 
longitudinal surface of the muscle a number of times in 
proximity to the stomach-region of a subject, dullness of 
the stomach is at once elicited. The force thus propagated 
is analogous to the electric currents from muscles. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

7. The same phenomenon is exhibited by metal (page 
179) and plants. 

Thus, if the stomach-region is brought in almost 
immediate contact with a growing palm, dullness of the 
stomach ensues. If, a leaf from a living palm is severed 
or, if the transverse cut surface is brought in contact 
with the longitudinal surface of the leaf a number of 
times (in proximity to the stomach), the same phenom- 
non of dullness is exhibited as when a muscle removed 
from an animal is similarly manipulated. 

The effect cited by the maneuver with the leaf of the 
palm may be elicited at a distance of 5 feet from the 
patient and the force passes through a sheet of metal 
held in front of the stomach. 

The transmission of psychic force is discussed on page 188. 

With the apparatus shown in Fig. 42, an attempt was 
made to make a record of the stomach-contractions with 
the results shown in Fig. 43. 

The effects of emotions on the stomach-musculature 
are shown in Fig. 44. 

The use of the apparatus for making these records is 
no more difficult of execution than making records of the 
pulse. 

Miscellaneous effects . — It is difficult in the absence 
of a reflexometer to accurately gauge the action of magnetiz- 
ation and demagnetization on the reflexes. 

The following effects are however apparent: 

1. If the motor area of the brain on the right side is 
demagnetized, there is an apparent increase of the reflexes 
on the opposite side. 

2. If the same area is magnetized, the reflexes on the 
opposite side become less evident. 

Temperature. — If the temperature of the body is 

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Physiological Physics 

below normal, exposure of the individual to the magnetic 
flux raises the temperature one degree or to the normal. 




Fig. 43. — Tracings of the stomach with the apparatus shown in fig. 42. A, 
normal curves dependent on respiratory excursions; B, normal curves due to trans- 
mitted pulsations of the aorta; C, curves caused by concussion of the 7th cervical 
spine; D, curves caused by contraction of the stomach due to making and breaking 
of the current leading to an electromagnet in proximity to the subject; E, curves 
caused by transmitted, energy from one subject (by concussing the 7th cervical spine) 
to another subject; F, curves due to transmitted psychic energy from one subject to 
another subject. During the making of records C, D, E, and F, breathing of the 
subject from whom the records were taken was temporarily suspended. The 
records^ of transmitted energy were made during the time one subject was in 
proximity but not in contact with the other subject. 

To express this matter in terms of greater precision 
one instance may be cited. An individual with a tuber- 
culous kidney shows a temperature of 96. 2 F. He is 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

then placed within 3 inches (without contact) of a power- 
ful electromagnet (Fig. 32) for a period of 3 minutes. 
At the end of the latter time, the thermometer registers 
98.6 F. 

No influence is noted on temperature if the latter 
is normal. 




Fig. 44. — Physiological manifestations of the emotions as exhibited by con- 
tractions of the stomach; A, joy; B, fear; C, great agitation. These tracings were 
taken from different subjects in whom these emotions were expressed by aid of the 
apparatus shown in fig. 42. Practically identical records were made in other 
subjects under like emotional conditions. 

In my investigations it has been noted that, electro- 
lysis is accentuated by the magnetic flux. This may 
easily be demonstrated by aid of a solution of potassium 
iodid. The brown coloration (due to the liberation of the 
iodin) is more intense with than without the magnetic 
flux. 

Microbiology.— Notwithstanding a number of in- 
vestigations, no microbicidal action of the magnetic 
force could be demonstrated. The results on photo- 
graphic plates were likewise negative. 

Attempts were made to determine whether digestion 
was facilitated by the magnetic force and retarded by 

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Physiological Physics 

demagnetization but I dare not venture to cite my re- 
sults for the reason that they were not conducted over 
a sufficient period of time to justify any formulated 
conclusions. 

Demonstration of stomach-border. — If what is known 
as a triple O capsule is filled with ferrum reductum 
(reduced iron), and well covered with wax (to prevent its 
solution by the gastric juice), is swallowed, its location 
may be determined by a powerful electromagnet. With 
the patient standing, the tip of the magnet is placed in im- 
mediate contact with the skin of the abdomen approxi- 
mating the supposed position of the lower border of the 
organ. 

In the average subject (without an excess of abdominal 
fat), when the current of the magnet is on, the capsule 
may be seen (and felt) to approach the tip of the magnet 
but disappears with every break of the current. The best 
effects are noted with make and break of the current. 

The capsule is best located outside of the rectus muscle. 

The impact of the capsule can be localized by the pat- 
ient. Making and breaking the current during the time 
the tip of the magnet is moved about the region of the 
stomach is another method of localization. 

Another method is to have the patient swallow a soft 
perforated iron-capsule about the size of the end of an 
average stomach-tube and connect it with rubber-tub- 
ing of small caliber. The capsule is better attracted if 
it has been previously magnetized by the pole opposite 
to that which is used for attraction. 

To facilitate to localization of the capsule, a special 
method of percussion is employed. The finger is placed 
not on but just above the skin and then struck with the 
other finger. A peculiar flopping sound is heard in the 
region of the capsule. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

By placing the tip of the magnet in the region of the 
duodenum during the time pressure is made at the 5 th 
dorsal spine (page 85), the capsule can be drawn into 
the duodenum. To show that it is in the latter situa- 
tion, have the patient drink some colored water. If the 
capsule is in the duodenum, a glass syringe attached to 
the rubber-tube will aspirate a fluid differing in color 
from the ingested water. 



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Deduction 



CHAPTER X 

DEDUCTIONS 

HYPOTHESES — THE REFLEX NATURE OF MAN — TONICITY — ANIMAL 
FORCE — LIFE — PROLONGATION AND REINFORCEMENT OF RE- 
FLEXES — TOPOGRAPHIC PERCUSSION — VISCERAL ATTRACTION 
AND REPULSION — NEUROSES — SPLANCHNOPTOSIS — PSYCHIC 
FORCE — COLOR — POPULAR QUESTIONS — SUMMARY. 

Hypotheses are essential in formulating conclusions 

based on all knowledge concerning scientific investigations. 

Prior to the promulgation of the Newtonian hypothesis 

of gravitation and the laws of Kepler, astronomy was in 

a hopeless state of chaos. 

The atomic theory in chemistry is incapable of demon- 
stration yet, as a working hypothesis, it has created a 
revolution in this science. The fact that an hypothesis is 
only demonstrable by its results in no wise compromises its 
value. 

Hudson, observes, "The most that can be said of any 
scientific hypothesis is that, whether true in the abstract 
or not, everything happens just as though it were true. 
When this test of universality is applied, when no known 
fact remains that is unexplained by it, the world is justi- 
fied in assuming it to be true, and in deducing from it 
even the most momentous conclusions." The author 
is fully alive to the apothegm that, a single antagonistic 
fact militates against the value of the most ingenious 
theory ever evolved. 

A careful study of the subject-matter of the preceding 
chapter directs attention to the pertinent fact that, the 
phenomena cited suggest the close identity of so-called 
animal-force with the various forms of force. 

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Progressive Spondylotherapy 

Everything tends to show the identity of the various 
forms of force, notably, the conservation of energy, the 
advances in the study of radioactivity, the kinetic theory 
of gases and the transmutation of electricity into heat, 
light, motion or chemical energy. 

Selenium changes the electrical resistence under the 
influence of light. In its crystalline condition, its sensi- 
tivity to light is increased especially to greenish-yellow 
rays. This property of selenium has led to the construc- 
tion of the photophone. 

The proof adduced by the author concerns chiefly the 
phenomena incident to the elicitation of the visceral re- 
flexes and the tonicity of the organs, notably the stomach. 

In accepting the reflexes as demonstrative evidence 
one interrogation seems apposite: Are the visceral reflexes 
acknoAvledged phenomena? 

For many years, physiologists have been able to con- 
tract and dilate organs in vivisected animals by stimulat- 
ing definite nerves of the spinal cord. What the physiol- 
ogist has done in the laboratory has been successfully 
attained by the author in the living human. 

In 1898 16 , the writer first demonstrated by aid of the 
X-rays what are now known in the literature as the "heart 
reflexes of Abrams." The latter signify contraction or 
dilatation of the heart incident to stimulation of definite 
regions of the spinal cord. 

After this, a large number of his eponymic reflexes were 
discovered and his observations have been confirmed 
by some of the leading clinicians of the world. 

Man is essentially a reflex animal (page 5). The 
phenomena of vegetative life, respiration, circulation, 
nutrition, etc., are produced in the subconscious state, 
and without voluntary effort. Consciousness is not co- 

174 



Deduct 



71 



extensive with mind and the work of mentality can be ac- 
complished without consciousness, just as the machinery 
of a clock might work without a dial. 

Man portrays his automicity in his reflexes and the 
latter are controlled by a force over which he can exercise 
no conscious control. 

The dead birds found about light-houses are drawn 
by the glare to strike against the heavy panes. The 
moth flies straight for a flame and if the pushing effect 
of the heat balances the attractive force of the light, it 
will circle the flame. A flower in a room will direct its 
petals towards the light. 

The reflex acts of the birds and moths differ in no 
respect from the reflex acts of the flower. The same 
force is dominant. 

Even though the author vaticinates the skeptic 
reception which will at first be accorded to his observa- 
tions, he could not possibly have relinquished the many 
toilsome though delightful hours which he has devoted 
to a study of this subject. The force which inspired his 
instinctivity differed in no respect from that which acti- 
vates the work of the ant or the bee. 

Tonicity. — The contractility of the stomach-muscula- 
ture and the transition of tympanitic resonance to dullness 
on percussion was also adduced as proof of the identity of 
the various forms of force. 

Tonicity has already been discussed (pages 6 and 124). 
Muscle in a state of tension which is practically its tonus is a 
conspicuous example of living matter. In consequence of 
this tension, the efficiency of the stomach as a motor organ 
is increased. Muscle- tonus is a reflex and is caused by 
stimuli acting on the skin (and elsewhere) conveyed by 
nerves to the cord and from the latter, impulses are carried 
to the muscles. This tonus disappears if either the pos- 

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Progressive Spondylotherapy 

terior roots of the spinal-nerves or the afferent nerves from 
the muscle are cut. 

Important functions of tonicity are the production of 
heat and the maintenance of metabolism. 

Animal-force. — The actual connection between mag- 
netism and currents of electricity was not definitely deter- 
mined until 1820, when Oersted, published the fact that a 
magnetic needle is disturbed by the presence of an electric 
current in its neighborhood. 

Magnetism set up by an electric current is known as 
electromagnetism. 

There is no difference in the magnetic force produced 
by a permanent magnet and that produced by an electric 
current. The magnetic field surrounding the flowing 
current consists of a kind of magnetic whirl and is strong- 
est nearest the current. 

Investigations concerning animal electricity began with 
the famous experiment of Galvani, in 1786, who observed 
contraction of the frog's thigh when touched in two places 
with the ends of a metallic arc. This discovery led phys- 
iologists at that time to believe that the vital force was at 
last discovered. 

Notwithstanding Volta's observation that, the contrac- 
tions were caused by the dissimilarity of the two ends of 
the metal touching the moist conductor and upon the pro- 
duction thereby of a Galvanic arc, later investigation 
demonstrated that electrical differences of potential do 
occur in the animal body. 

In every active nerve or muscle electrical currents are 
produced, and the latter are intimately associated with 
the functional condition of the tissue. Every active part 
maintains a negative electrical relation toward the part 
at rest. 

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u c t i o n 



Electrical phenomena are encountered in other tissues 
and in plants. 

If a shaded and exposed part of a green leaf be con- 
nected with a Galvanometer, an electric current is developed 
when the light falls on the exposed part. 

The electrical organs of electrical fishes are essentially 
metamorphosed muscles and the force of the electric cur- 
rent in the cramp fish amounts to 31 volts. 

For many years, the subject of animal electricity was 
in disrepute owing to the charlatanry associated with it, 
but thanks to its scientific investigation by physiologists, 
notably, DuBois-Reymond and Hermann, it was partially 
rescued from evil. 

It is questionable whether animal-magnetism is derived 
wholly from animal electricity or the earth's magnetism 
or whether both are concerned in its production. The 
theory of Ampere, supposed that the cause of the earth's 
magnetism was due to currents of electricity flowing around 
the earth. 

One may conceive the sun as a gigantic cathode nega- 
tively charged giving off corpuscles like all incandescent 
bodies. These corpuscles coming under the influence of 
the earth's magnetism travel along the line of the. earth's 
magnetic force. It is even probable that the corpuscles 
whirling about on their own axes create a magnetic field 
in their vicinity. 

It is reasonable to assume that, the molecules of animal 
tissues are inherently or naturally magnetized; each mole- 
cule showing a north and south polarity. This polarity 
may be caused by closed circuits of animal electricity or 
from the magnetic flux in the atmosphere. 

In the act of magnetization, like poles face in the same 
direction (Fig. 31). We may further assume that every 

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Progressive S p o n d y I o therapy 

electrified molecule is a magnet with varying degrees of 
magnetic force and what is known as chemical affinity is 
nought else but the magnetic properties of molecules. 

Energy is essentially the mechanics of the ether and 
force is anything which moves matter. 

Life. — Scientists are disposed to group the natural 
sciences into the biological sciences dealing with living 
things and the abiological or physical sciences dealing with 
lifeless matter. 

It was a great concession when the vital phenomena 
of animals and plants were studied equally with man in 
determining the field of life. 

Of all vital phenomena, motion furnishes the most 
suggestive impression of living. Thus, a child would re- 
gard a steam engine as a living thing. 

The conception of life has always varied with the develop- 
ment of the human species. The primitive conception was 
associated with the wind, waves, fire, in fact with anything 
in motion. 

Vital-force was primarily employed to signify a mystical 
power resident in the living and differing from electric, 
thermic and other forms of energy. 

At present, vital-force signifies energies resident in living 
matter. 

The hypothesis of vitalism, supposed that the phenomena 
of life are inexplicable apart from a special vital-force resi- 
dent in organisms and different from the chemico-physical 
energies of the inanimate world. 

The neo-vitalists maintained that it was impossible to 
furnish a complete chemico-physical restatement of any 
observed function. 

Vitality was a complex adaptive synthesis of matter and 
energy, the secret of which was unknown. Foster con- 

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D e d it c t 



n 



tended that what we call structure and composition must 
be approached under the dominant conceptions of modes of 
motion. The qualities of living matter are expressions of 
internal movements. 

Our present conception of vital phenomena (in animals 
and plants) refers the vital energy to a single inorganic force 
drawn from the sun. The sun is an inexhaustible source of 
physical energy and maintains the activity of all living 
things. The forces which exist in nature may be trans- 
formed but not created by living things. 

The forces of organic and inorganic matter are identical. 
The distinguished Calcutta physicist, Bose, believes 
that in some obscure degree, all matter lives. It is dif- 
ficult to distinguish a dividing line between the animate 
and inanimate. Bose, regards as a true test of life in an 
object, its capacity to respond to an external stimulus — 
i, e.,.its irritability or sensitiveness. Iron is as irritable as 
the human body as shown by a galvanometer. Metals 
have periods of activity and rest like animal matter; 
they show curves of fatigue when stimulated excessively, 
and stimulants and narcotics have an action on metals 
similar to that observed in living animal matter. The 
forces emanating from chemical reactions and metal 
show the same action as the force discharged from the or- 
ganism. 

Dissolving common salt in a vessel of water or strik- 
ing steel with a hammer in proximity to the stomach- 
region, will at once evoke a transitory area of stomach- 
dullness. With the salt undergoing solution a tremen- 
dous force is developed (page 181). Striking the steel 
mechanically agitates it and demagnetizes it. Why a 
few strokes of a hammer causes the greater part of the 
magnetism to disappear cannot be accounted for by 
physicists but in the light of my investigations it would 
appear to be caused by a discharge of force from the 
metal. To avoid air-concussion, the metal was struck 
with a rubber hammer. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Life is dependent on external conditions of the earth's 
surface and is in a sense a function of the development of 
the earth. In the ceaseless and intricate dance of the mole- 
cules constituting living matter, the question of personal 
identity must be considered. Matter is essential to con- 
sciousness. Matter changes constantly but consciousness 
shows no solution of continuity. As one writer observes, 
" Constancy of form in the grouping of the molecules, and 
not the constancy of the molecules themselves, is the cor- 
relative of this constancy of perception." 

There is no reason to question the belief that, if one 
could gather the molecules and put them in the same 
relative positions which they occupy in the organism and 
endow them with identical forces and distribution of forces 
and motions and distribution of motions, this organized 
molecular concourse would constitute a sentient thinking 
being. 

Identity is no less an attribute of inorganic than it is of 
organic matter. 

The property of assuming more than one elementary 
form is known in chemistry as allotropism. The diamond, 
graphite and amorphous carbon are identical in composition, 
although showing different properties. Here identity is not 
only a question of a difference of the number of atoms in a 
molecule but a difference in the arrangement. 

When crystals of urea were first discovered in the body 
they were regarded as products of vital energy but this 
theory was exploded when urea was formed outside of the 
body by synthesis. 

Scientists recognize a law of change and a law of contin- 
uity. They deal with energy which is neither created nor 
destroyed. Respecting mentality at death, we do not know 

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u c t i o n 



what part of the cosmos takes it up. The latter is a problem 
of psychology. 

The chemic theory of Pfliiger suggests that the real 
difference between dead and living proteid lies in the group- 
ing of the nitrogen in the molecule. 

In the physics of life, the origin of energy predicates an 
understanding of the law of the conservation of energy. 
Chemic action is demonstrated by different forms of energy ; 
it may be heat, light or electricity. A chemic reaction is not 
only a rearrangement of matter, but also a transformation 
of energy. 

The epoch-making researches of Loeb, suggested the 
identity of electricity and vitality. 

Common salt dissolved in water makes the latter a 
conductor of electricity. 

Arrhenius, demonstrated that by this solution the 
molecules are torn asunder with an enormous electrical 
charge on the atoms (one set being positively and the 
other set negatively charged). 

The electrically charged atoms are known as ions. 
In the contraction of a muscle, the negatively charged 
atoms start the contraction and the positively charged 
atoms arrest it. 

The chief value of food is to produce electricity; heat 
and other objects are of secondary importance. 

In deducing from the observations of the preceding 
chapter concerning the force concerned in vital phenomena, 
we are constrained to conclude that it is an electromagnetic 
force. Whether the electromagnetic force is derived from 
animal electricity or the latter is of magnetic origin is a mere 
question of logomachy. 

Before the time of Oersted, the intimate relations of 
electricity and magnetism were not recognized and until the 
time of Faraday, it was impossible to conceive of the enor- 
mous storage of electricity from spinning magnets. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

In accordance with Ampere's theory of magnetism, 
which may be paraphrased with specific reference to the 
organism, one may regard the animal tissues as molecular 
magnets around which an electric current is continually 
flowing. In other words, the molecules of tissues are nought 
else but rotating portions of electrified matter (Fig. 45). 

In the study of all vital phenomena, the cell must be re- 
garded as an elementary organism. It is the beginning and 
source of the entire body. It is the primary anatomic and 
physiologic unit of the organic world. The essential con- 
stituent of the cell is bioplasm, the characteristics of which 
have already been discussed on page 126. 



Fig. 45. — Illustrating Amperes theory of magnetism. Each molecule has a 
current of electricity circulating round it. This figure represents the N-seeking 
pole and the currents move in the direction opposite to that of the hands of a watch 
(after Poyser). 

We have noted that the magnetic force will reproduce 
the phenomena of bioplasm and in this action it is superior 
to all the other forces employed in our investigations. In 
assigning to electro-magnetic force the source of vital energy, 
we dare not deny the transmutation of the various forms of 
force. 

Prolongation of reflexes. — It has already been shown 
(page 125) that the magnetic force will produce reflexes lasting 
for many hours and in this respect the other known forces in 
comparison are relatively inert in action. This prolongation 
of the reflexes is equivalent to the supply of tone (page 124). 

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tc c t i o n 



Reinforcement of reflexes. — Reading of the subject- 
matter on page 40, will elucidate the purport of this 
caption. The magnetic force may be employed in lieu of 
the mechanic methods cited. When a subject is exposed to 
the flux in a magnetic field, the organism displays its specific 
attribute of selection; the sympathetic-fibers and vagus- 
fibers appropriating an amount sufficient for their individual 
use. If, however, one charges the vagus-nerve at the 7th 
cervical spine, this power of selection is defeated and the tone 
acquired by the vagus-fibers will be in physiologic excess 
of the inherent force present in the sympathetic nervous 
system. 

Life, said Sir Thomas Browne, "is a pure flame and 
we live by an invisible sun within us." 

The organism may be regarded as an animal machine. 
Ostwald speaks of a benzine motor, which regulates its 
benzine-supply by means of a ball-governor in such a 
way that its velocity remains constant, as having ex- 
actly the same property as a living organism. If such a 
machine could work constantly and could receive an 
inexhaustible supply of benzine, we would be compelled 
to regard it as a living organism. 

In our mechanistic conception of life, we fail to pay 
due regard to the regulatory mechanism of the organism 
by which it regulates its supply of force (as expressed in 
tissue- tone) and what physiologists call force. The 
selective attribute of supplying and discharging force 
to the organs is probably mediated by the autonomic 
system (page 25). If during the time this system is 
demagnetized (at the 7th cervical spine), it is impossible 
with the most powerful electromagnetic flux to elicit 
any stomach-dullness; i. e., no tone can be imparted 
to the stomach or for that matter to any of the other 
organs. 

It is not unlikely that, the sympathetic system is 
purely negative in action like the vasodilator nerves 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

(page 64); its activity only becoming manifest when 
the force resident in the autonomic system becomes 
diminished. At any rate, force as a factor in the animal 
machine is an important one. 

Topographic percussion. — Augmenting the supply 
of tone to the organs by increasing the rigidity of their 
muscular components will yield a more pronounced dull- 
ness on percussion (page 150). After this manner we may 
delimit the organs in a manner almost equivalent to their 
delimitation by the X-rays without any of the errors or 
inconvenience incident to the use of the latter. To attain 
these results, all that is necessary is to have the patient 
stand in proximity to the source of the magnetic force. 

In this respect, either pole is sufficient. In the absence 
of a large electromagnet, one may fix an ordinary horse- shoe 
magnet in the center of the organ which is to be delimited 
(Fig. 36). The right border of the heart which is conceded 
to be difficult to delimit is readily outlined provided per- 
cussion is executed at the end of a forced expiration. 

Visceral attraction and repulsion (page 156). — 
No conclusions have been formulated respecting these 
phenomena exhibited by the organs in morbid conditions. 
Sufficient data however, have been accumulated to show 
that further investigations will furnish important facts 
concerning this subject. 

Drugs have an important influence on the phenom- 
ena in question (page 159). In hysteria, asafetida, val- 
erian and allied drugs, have been found empirically to 
possess a remarkable sedative action. Such effects have 
never been explained other than by saying that, all 
malodorous drugs are grateful to hysterics. 

In hysteria, I have found that the organs show little 
or no magnetic attraction but after administering a drug 
like valerian the attraction is augmented; that is to say, 

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the liver will be found to descend lower after than before 
the administration of this drug. 

Traumatic neuroses. — After accidents, symptoms of 
neurasthenia or hysteria or both develop. The condition 
is often known as "railway brain" or " railway spine." As 
a rule there is no anatomic change present to account for 
the symptoms. It has been shown on page 157, that con- 
cussion of the vertebrae is equivalent to demagnetization 
but whether the latter has any bearing on the condition 
is a matter for further investigation. 

Mere concussion of an organ like the liver will not only 
prevent its descent by an electromagnet (page 156) but 
will actually cause its repulsion, i. e., percussion shows a 
rise of the lower border of the organ. 

Splanchnoptosis. — Many ingenious theories have been 
suggested to account for prolapse of the abdominal organs. 
Among the theories are: 

1 . Pathologic reversion of the location of the abdominal 
organs to an embryonic state; 

2. The abdominal organs are supported by ligaments 
and when the firmness and rigidity of the latter are impaired 
the equilibrium of the organs is disturbed. This theory is 
defective for the reason that, all the ligaments in the abdo- 
men are insufficient to support even the liver; 

3. The abdominal organs are kept in place by intra- 
abdominal pressure. 

4. The organs are kept in position by negative aspira- 
tion of the thorax ; 

5. The position of the organs is maintained by pressure 
and ligaments; 

6. The organs are maintained in position by the normal 
tone of their muscular tissue (page 8) . 

185 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

The author finds that the latter theory is probably the 
correct one as can be demonstrated by the following in- 
vestigations. If one demagnetizes (which is equivalent to 
the abstraction of tone) the region corresponding to the 
7rh cervical spine, tone is removed from the pneumogastric 
nerve which supplies the abdominal organs. In consequence 




Fig. 46. — Illustrating a fall of the organs (aorta, heart, liver, spleen and stom- 
ach) after removal of vagus-tone by demagnetization at the 7th cervical spine. 
The broken lines indicate the position of the lower borders (excepting heart and 
aorta) before and the continuous lines after demagnetization. 

of this loss of tone or energy, there is an immediate drop of 
the liver, stomach and spleen (Fig. 46). A more decided 
drop is noted if demagnetization is executed over the region 
of the heart. The latter is probably the chief source of the 
energy of the organism (page 164). In consequence of the 
latter maneuver, the heart likewise drops. If one now 

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charges the vagus with magnetic force at the 7 th cervical 
spine, the organs at once resume their former position. 

It has already been shown (page 154) that magnetic 
force only fixes but does not raise normal viscera, hence, by 
this method we have a simple means of determining the 
presence of prolapsed organs. If, by charging the 7th cervi- 
cal spine, any organ rises in position, it must have been pro- 
lapsed. 

Demagnetization attempted over the liver or spleen 
causes only a descent of the liver or the spleen. 

If one demagnetizes between the 3rd and 4th dorsal 
spines, the tone of the vagus is no longer counteracted by 
the tone of the sympathetic nerves (page 161) and the 
organs occupy a higher position than when the magnetic 
force is conveyed to the vagus at the 7th cervical spine. 

The behavior of the kidneys was quite contrary to 
my expectations. Demagnetization at the 7th cervical 
spine causes a rise in the position of the kidneys and a 
contrary effect when demagnetization is executed be- 
tween the 3rd and 4th dorsal spines. It is possible 
that although the normal position of the other organs is 
dominated by the vagus the sympathetic influences the 
normal position of the kidneys. 

Force of the heart. — Electrical variations due to the con- 
tractions of the heart (Fig. 47) may be determined by 
electrocardiagrams. Here, the contraction of a ventricle 
is comparable with a simple muscular contraction (page 165). 

The hands of the patient are immersed in jars con- 
taining 0.9 per cent, of sodium chlorid solution. The 
jars are connected in circuit with a very delicate Ein- 
thoven thread-galvanometer and the movements of the 
latter are recorded photographically. This apparatus 
is chiefly employed in detecting irregularities in the 
rhythm of the heart. 

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Progressive Spondylotherapy 

An important avenue of study consists in determining 
the force of the heart by the method indicated on page 166. 
Here, force may be calculated by the intensity and duration 
of dullness plus the distance from the subject in whom dull- 
ness of the stomach is evoked. 

Psychic force and its transmission. — On page 165, 
reference was made to definite facts concerning action- 
currents. 

The following investigations show that the psychic 
action-currents conform to like laws. 




Fig. 47. — Showing variations of electrical potential associated with the beat of 
the human heart and their distribution in the body (after Waller) . These electrical 
currents generated by the activity of the heart diffuse throughout the entire body 
according to the usual laws. 

The action-current is associated with the process of 
excitation and is produced by all kinds of stimuli but varies 
in strength with the strength of stimulation. 

1. If one side of the head of a subject is struck a series 
of blows by means of a rubber-hammer, a stomach-dullness 
in the subject ensues. Here a force is generated not unlike 
that evoked by striking the 7 th cervical spine (page 164). 

188 



D 



d 



u 



c 



n 



s 



2. If, however, blows are struck on both sides of the 
head of the subject, no stomach-dullness can be elicited. 
The two negative currents apparently generated neutralize 
the production of psychic force. Concussion of the head in 
the median line is likewise negative. 

3. If, while sitting in proximity to the exposed stomach- 
region of the first subject and one side of the head of another 
subject is concussed, a stomach-dullness can be elicited in 

FIRST SUBJECT 



R/ghr S/de. 



Left S/c/e 




R/ght Si do. 



Left <S/de 



SECOND SUBJECT 



Fig. 48. — Illustrating positive and negative reactions on the stomach muscu- 
lature by stimulating like and unlike sides of two subjects. 

the first subject. Such dullness however, is not evoked if 
the head of the second subject is concussed in the median line 
or first on one and then on the other side. 

If subject one is faced by subject two and the right or 
left side of the head of both subjects is simultaneously con- 
cussed, no stomach-dullness ensues. If, however, opposite 
sides of the head of both subjects are concussed, dullness 
ensues. A similar phenomenon is noted when the arms of 
both subjects are voluntarily contracted (Fig. 48). 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

This experiment suggests that our bodies may be 
likened to a horseshoe magnet, positively charged on 
one side and negatively charged on the other side. 
Further, that the circumambient ether in proximity to 
our bodies is similarly polarized. In accordance with the 
law of attraction and repulsion (page 138), the positive 
and negative reactions in the foregoing experiments 
may be explained. 

Electrotaxis illustrates this attraction and repulsion. 
If a Galvanic current is allowed to flow through a trough 
rilled with water and containing animals, the latter move 
in the direction of either the positive or of the negative 
current. 

4. These maneuvers are negative with moderate electric 
stimulation. 

5. If during the time the center of the head is being 
demagnetized, concussion on either side of head is negative 
with reference to the elicitation of dullness. If, however, 
only one side of the head is demagnetized, concussion of the 
other side elicits the stomach-dullness. If demagnetization 
is executed over the region of the heart, concussion of the 
head is negative in revealing stomach-dullness. 

The probable source of the force in the organism is from 
the heart. 

6. Thought yields a force the presence of which can be 
exhibited by stomach-dullness . This force however is not 
revealed if the brain functionates in its entirety unless a 
special maneuver is tried. It is necessary to demagnetize 
one side of the brain during the time of thought. In demag- 
netizing, it is not necessary to reduce the intensity of the 
current (page 160); the mere change of polarity suffices. 
The best effects are noted when the rod of the demagnetiz- 
ing instrument is placed on the side of the frontal region. 

With the first subject in one room with closed doors and 

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Deductions 

the other subject in another room, the force provoked by 
thought may be transmitted from the latter to the former 
over a distance of forty or more feet as revealed by stomach- 
dullness in the first subject. Psychic force passes through 
metal and all other media thus far tried. 

Anger and emotions yield a force which may be trans- 
mitted over a distance of eighty feet. 

The potentiality of the psychic force is determinable 
by the intensity and duration of the stomach-dullness and 
the distance of the subject from the person engaged in 
thought. The position of the recipient with reference to 
the person occupied in thought is of no moment but the 
recipient must be standing to elicit the reaction of stomach- 
dullness. 

In my experiments, the person engaged in thought was 
instructed to perform examples in mental arithmetic. 

The Cartesian conception that, matter cannot act where 
it is not, was overthrown by Newton, in his law of universal 
gravitation. 

7. Color influences the transmission of psychic force 
as can be noted when the person engaged in thought holds 
large colored sheets of gelatine in front of the head. Green 
and violet obstruct the passage of the force whereas blue 
and notably yellow intensify the action of the force as re- 
vealed by the intensity and duration of the stomach- 
dullness. Light acting on the head through a yellow med- 
ium minimizes psychic activity (page 200). 

Some writers work better in proportion as the heat 
and light are more intense. Some cannot think well in 
the dark. Red excites some individuals and most ani- 
mals. Witness the matador as he excites the infuriated 
bull to charge by manipulations of his red cloth. 

There is reason for the foregoing. Electric light 
thrown on one side of the head stimulates like a blow 

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Progressive S p ondyloth e r a p y 

and excites the stomach to contract. Directed on the 
center of the head, it is negative. Light passed through 
a red medium covering the head is negative when di- 
rected on one side of the head but produces a powerful 
contraction when directed on the center of the head. 
This exciting effect on protoplasm is the same 
whether resident in muscle or brain. 

Psychic force may be transmitted to another (as re- 
vealed by stomach-dullness), if during thought, the head 
is covered (covering other parts does not suffice) with some 
red material or, if the latter is held in front of the stomach 
of the second subject. 

This experiment dispenses with the necessity of demag- 
netizing one side of the head. Furthermore, the stomach of 
the patient engaged in thought may be used provided any red 
material is thrown over the head or held near the stomach- 
region. If red paper or any other red material is thrown 
over the head of an intelligent dog, the stomach of a sub- 
ject in proximity to the animal shows dullness and the latter 
disappears when the colored material is removed. The 
force thus transmitted differs in no respect from the psychic 
force of the human as far as its physiologic effects is con- 
cerned. 

The foregoing experiments may explain some of the 
phenomena of telepathy. Thought-transference is a reality 
despite the fact that the most we know about it is that we 
know nothing about it and are not sure even of that. 

The proceedings of the "Society for Psychical Research," 
reveal many pertinent paradigms which demonstrate that 
in man there is a faculty which permits him at times to com- 
municate directly with the consciousness of another indi- 
vidual. 

I have purposely italicized "at times" for the reason 

192 



Deduct 



71 



that my investigations show that, the force is only propa- 
gated during the time one side of the brain is temporarily 
incapacitated (unless color is employed, page 192). It is 
necessary to show in further experiments if it is possible 
for an individual to inhibit voluntarily one side of the brain. 

If in my experiments I have utilized the stomach-muscle 
as an index in revealing force and its transmission, conven- 
tionalism has not been disregarded. 

Frogs' legs are now employed for recording wireless 
messages (Fig. 34). Psychists have accepted the contracting 
muscles of the frog as the first definite index of thought- 
transference. Our nerves and muscles are more complex 
and responsive than those of a frog. 

"Cheiro," in his "Language of the Hand" describes 
an instrument for measuring psychic force and main- 
tains that, the indicator-needle of his instrument es- 
tablishes the reality of thought. Careful investigation 
by two members of the " Society for Psychical Research" 
demonstrated that the results were due to other causes. 

The "sthenometer" of Dr. Paul Joire, is supposed 
to fulfill the same indications as the former. 

A more thorough understanding of psychic force 
may explain the phenomena of telekinesis. 

It is reasonable to suppose, considering the data 
already presented that the force of the organism may 
be compared to the magnetic force. 

Magnets act at a distance although there is no ap- 
parent medium connecting them with the object acted 
upon. 

The most tenable theory supposes that, the flux of 
the magnet passes out at its north pole and reenters it 
at its south pole. 

In other words, the magnet at one pole is like a force- 
pump and at the other pole, it is like a suction-pump. 
After this manner attraction and repulsion are explain- 
able. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Color. — The experiments on page 130, direct attention 
to the influence of color on tonicity of the organs. The 
therapeutic value of colors (chromotherapy) has been 
acknowledged on empirical lines. 

Percussion demonstrates that in the light, the organs 
show more tonicity and better delimitation (page 184) than 
in the dark. Respecting the action of color on the tonicity 
of the stomach, vide page 129, 

Fleming, in his book "Waves and Ripples," shows 
that there are many more ether-waves than are cur- 
rently supposed in the solar spectrum and with the 
diffraction spectrum of Langley, it has been shown that 
the greatest heating power is not found in the infra-red, 
but in the orange or orange-yellow. We found that 
these colors will augment the action of the forces (pages 
129 and 191). 

In the spectrum one finds radiations varying in length 
from several miles long (oscillations of Hertz) to less than 
.000009 °f an mcn (violet rays). Light is an electromag- 
netic disturbance of the ether. It is in this way only that 
one can account for the penetrating effects of light as shown 
in my experiments. I am assuming that, light is positively 
or negatively charged and colors are probably only different 
charges (page 203). 

Dullness produced by yellow (page 128) is at once dis- 
sipated by violet, blue or green.* 

Why red permits the transmission of psychic force with 
the brain acting in its entirety, I cannot say other than to 
suppose that it is oppositely charged to the two hemispheres 
of the brain. 



*In my works on "Autointoxication," (page 245), and "Diagnostic-Therapeu- 
tics," color in diagnosis (chromodiagnosis), has been discussed. 

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POPULAR QUESTIONS. 



Personal magnetism. — Although this phrase is now 
employed figuratively, at one time it had a literal significance. 
It was supposed that a physical force equivalent to that 
exhibited by a magnet passed from one person to another. 
This conception of personality was abandoned when science 
was unable to demonstrate a so-called transmitted vital 
force. If one reviews the history of medicine one finds that, 
the great men in the profession owed their success to their 
personality. "Successful treatment," said Huf eland, " re- 
quires one- third science and two- thirds savoir-faire." Science 
and heart are so nicely blended in the truly great physician 
that neither is operative separately. "Cheer is a powerful 
drug, for a merry heart doeth good like a medicine." 

The so-called personal magnetism has been chiefly ex- 
hibited by "healers" who were not physicians. Their 
presence or manipulations seemed to arouse the latent energy 
of the patient and endow him with increased vitality. 

With the facts presented are we in a position to deny 
teledynamics or a transmission of energy? 

What is known as induction of magnetism is the com- 
munication of the latter to a piece of iron without actual 
contact with a magnet and by this process the piece of iron 
will have two poles; the pole nearest to the pole of the in- 
ducing magnet being of the opposite kind, while the pole 
at the farther end is of the same kind as the inducing pole. 

This inductive action is like that observed when a non- 
electrified body is brought under the influence of an electrified 
one. (Vide, page 139). 

Can we deny that the animal-force of one individual 
cannot act on another by induction? 

Magnets have their likes and dislikes as exhibited by 

195 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

attraction and repulsion. All matter has the same attrac- 
tive force. Every molecule is a magnet and is electrified. 
Some are powerful and others feeble. 

As a rule, a natural lodestone cannot lift its own 
weight yet Sir Isaac Newton, had a lodestone set in 
his hand ring which although weighing but three grains 
could lift 233 times its own weight. 

Chemical affinity is probably only the magnetic properties 
of molecules. 

My friend, Carl Snyder, in his remarkable book, "New 
Conceptions in Science" observes: What we used to call 
loves and hates of the chemical " affinities" was but a name 
for the action of electrically charged atoms. Thus chemistry 
like light will be annexed to the wide domain of electricity. 

Lord Kelvin, refers to matter as minute whirls or 
" vortex-rings." These rings are like the smoke-rings from 
a locomotive or from tobacco. Two smoke-rings attract 
each other like little worlds and if stopped by an obstacle 
in a room, they will move on again when the obstacle is 
removed. Gravitation is a relatively weak force when 
compared with the enormous molecular forces. In account- 
ing for personal magnetism due regard must be paid to the 
vibration-rate during transmission of the force and to the 
fact whether the recipient is properly attuned to these 
vibrations. Personal likes or dislikes may only be questions 
of individuals in or out of tune (page 206). 

Music and noise. — Every phenomenon in nature de- 
pends on matter in motion or vibration. In music we are 
dealing with vibrations which create pleasant mental 
images and emotions. The physical reaction of the organism 
to music is manifested by changes in the pulse-rate and 
blood-pressure. Quiet and restful numbers reduce the latter. 

196 



Deductions 

Horace, in his Thirty-second Ode, Book i., concludes his 
address to the lyre: 

"O laborum, dulce lenimen, mihicumque salve. 
Ritevocanti" 

(O, of our troubles the sweet, the healing sedative). 

A line of poetry is nought else but simple physical pro- 
cesses; it means the rate of heart-beat and regularity or 
irregularity of breathing of the author at the time the 
verse was written. 

Bacon, Milton and others, recognized the value of music 
as a stimulant to intellectual work. By aid of the ergo graph 
it can be shown that, when the fingers are fatigued, music 
will restore their vigor. Sad music will have a contrary 
effect. Experiments on dogs demonstrated that music 
increases the elimination of carbonic acid, increases the 
consumption of oxygen and augments the functional 
activity of the skin. In consequence of its acknowledged 
physiologic action, music has been employed (musicotherapy) 
in the treatment of mental and nervous affections. In the 
classics, we recall that the singing of birds was the method 
employed to cure the insomnia of Maecenas. 

The author is inclined to regard the pathology of many 
nervous affections as the physics of abnormal vibrations. 

Recalling the observations on page 156, respecting visceral 
attraction and repulsion, it has been found that music and 
the vibrations of a tuning-fork will increase the descent 
of the liver whereas noises will not only destroy this attract- 
ion but may cause an actual repulsion of the organ. 

Many popular expressions like, "shattered nerves," 
"nerves in tension," and "upset nerves," are employed to 
describe the sensations of nerves in disorder. The foregoing 
expressions may be literally true if we regard the structures 
of the body as infinitestimal magnets with modified polarity 

197 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

(Vide, page 182), or bear in mind the molecular vibration 
of nerve-tissue and the response of such tissue to the vibra- 
tions of tuning-forks as shown on page 206. Molecular 
vibration is a universal law. 

Cosmic influences. — It is generally conceded that the 
cosmic forces exhibit a potent influence upon the organism. 
The nature of this influence is but little understood. The 
pains of rheumatic and gouty subjects are modified by 
conditions of the weather. 

Edward Dexter 17 , has contributed an important 
monograph bearing on the mental and physiological 
effects of metereological conditions. 

In a living organism a part of the available energy 
is necessary for the vital processes of living, while the 
reserve energy goes into the intellectual processes. 

Weather-conditions play on the reserve energy by 
affecting oxidation, which is the chemical basis of life. 
Inhabitants of hot climates are apathetic and impro- 
vident. An equable, moist temperature weakens body 
and mind. The most favorable temperature for health, 
with its aggressive energy, is about 55 degrees F. and 
this is found in the temperate zones. The dominant 
peoples are shown between the 25th and 55th parallels. 

The effect of weather has been shown upon human 
conduct by marked fluctuation of immoral acts. We 
find ourselves out of sorts on hot, humid, cloudy, and 
perhaps rainy days. We have always known the in- 
fluence that weather-changes play in the causation of 
disease, especially in the so-called barometric neuroses. 
The total atmospheric pressure at sea level on an adult 
body is about fifteen tons. Variations of this pressure 
are compensated by resiliency of the blood-vessels, which 
equalizes the circulatory disturbances. In the old, how- 
ever, the diminished arterial elasticity accounts for the 
headache, rheumatic pains, drowsiness, etc., resulting 
from altered pressure. Relative rarity of the air with 

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oxygen deficiency induces exhaustion. Electric storms 
produce headache. Positive atmospheric electricity 
stimulates and the negative variety present in inclement 
weather depresses the individual. 

Arrhenius, has striven to show that various physiological 
processes, notably menstruation, are related to electrical 
variations of the atmosphere and the chemical changes 
thereby effected. At the suggestion of this celebrated 
savant, experiments are now being conducted upon 50 school 
children in Stockholm, to determine the effect of electricity 
upon the growth of children. 

The application of electric currents to the soil has been 
shown to increase the quantity and quality of its products. 

The influence of terrestrial magnetism (page 140) on 
the physiologic processes must be an important one. 

The phenomena of terrestrial magnetism as exhibited 
in magnetic storms and the auroral light seem to have 
their analogies in the " brain-storms" and photisms. 

Clothing. — Light-hunger, and may we add light over- 
feeding, are potent factors in disease. A poverty of light 
is no less pernicious in its effects than the excessive light of 
the tropics. Tropical neurasthenia has been attributed to 
overstimulation by the actinic rays of tropical sunshine. 
In our experiments we have noted that, relaxation of the 
organs . (diminished tonicity) ensues when the solar rays are 
focused on individual organs. At a distance the rays aug- 
ment the tonicity of the organs (page 128). We have found 
that the rays contracting the stomach act through black 
clothing and that the action of these peculiar penetrating rays 
may be inhibited by violet, green or blue. It is therefore 
suggested that for light-hunger, yellow (page 130) garments 
should be used and the other colors when the light is too 
intense. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

We have found that each time the light from an in- 
candescent bulb is allowed to act on the head, the stomach 
of the subject shows dullness. The latter ensues with all 
colors excepting yellow. It is therefore suggested that this 
color should be utilized as a lining for hats when it is desired 
to minimize brain-activity due to the influence of light. 

Magnetic rings, belts, etc. — Magnetism is frequently ex- 
ploited by the unscrupulous advertiser who sells to the un- 
wary rings, belts, pads and garments supposedly endowed 
with magnetic virtues. These have been repeatedly tested 
by the author with results which were invariably negative. 

What is obvious cannot compete with what is obscure 
in the treatment of disease, hence the success of the charla- 
tan. 

If magnetism is desired, the expenditure of a few cents 
would purchase a really efficient magnet. 

Dextral or sinistral symptoms. — For some reason, 
patients will complain of symptoms predominating either 
on the right or left side of the body. Such complaints I have 
heretofore regarded as ridiculous. The cortical sensory 
areas dominate opposite halves of the body. If the skin 
on the right side of the body is irritated, stomach-dullness 
ensues but the latter cannot be elicited if the skin of the left 
half of the body is irritated. The tonicity of the right lobe 
of the liver is increased by irritating the skin on the left 
side and a like action is exhibited by the left lobe of the liver 
when the skin on the right side is irritated. A few inhala- 
tions of some anesthetic prevent the foregoing effects. 

summary.* 
i. The trend of scientific opinion is to reduce all force 

*The number or numbers in parentheses refer to the page or pages in this work 
respecting the subject-matter from which conclusions have been formulated. 

200 



S u m m a r y 

to a single underlying principle and to unify as it were, the 
various forms of force (115). 

The theory of the Conservation of Energy, showing the 
transmutation of force (116) corroborates the foregoing. 

The Aristotelian conception of " Soul" as "the vital 
principle" or the generally accepted distinction of Des- 
cartes, between mind and matter {res cogitans and the res 
extensa) is no more acceptable than the belief of theolo- 
gians that, there existed in man an imponderable, incor- 
ruptible and incombustible bone which was necessary for 
the nucleus of the resurrection body. 

One may speculate with metaphysics, but science in- 
variably investigates and progresses along the lines of sense- 
impressions. 

Science never transcends human intelligence, nor does 
it invoke in the interests of its doctrines any suspension 
of nature's laws; for, after all, "Facts are the words of God." 

The religionist denies that science offers consolation to 
the soul. Applied to the ignorant, this contention may be 
true but the educated cannot reconcile doctrines in conflict 
with progressive science. The doctrine of " Immortality" is 
by no means alluring. Annihilation of self is, according to 
the religion of Buddha, perfect rest, and is not to be feared 
when old age has come with its inevitable assemblage of 
infirmities. Haeckel, relates the legend of the unhappy 
Ahasuerus, who vainly sought death after finding his eternal 
life intolerable. The orthodox doctrine of the soul sup- 
ported by spiritualistic philosophers is that, it possesses 
none of the properties of matter; that it is created simul- 
taneously with the body, and that it is capable of itself, 
independent of any other cause, of controlling the bodily 
functions. 

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Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

We must regard life as a force active on and through 
matter. 

2. The electronic theory (115) employed in explana- 
tion of physiotherapeutic action, supposes the results to 
be effected by the interplay of moving particles electri- 
cally charged. The action in question causes the discharge 
of reflexes. 

3. Stimulation predicates a discharge of animal- force 
(164), and one of the evidences of the latter, is augmented 
tonicity of the organs and tissues (123). 

4. The chief source of animal-force is probably derived 
from the heart (164) and its distribution in the organ- 
ism is one of the functions of the autonomic nervous system 
(25). The sympathetic system is probably only negatively 
active. 

5. Animal- force, as far as its physiological action is 
concerned, cannot be differentiated from the other forms of 
force. It is a form of energy like light, heat, electricity; 
magnetism and the X-rays. 

Electricity is an invariable property of matter but matter 
and electricity are so intimately associated that they are 
practically the same. The organism may be regarded as an 
aggregation of electrified corpuscles and in this sense, all 
life-processes (vitality) and electricity are identical. What 
we regard as animal force or energy may be the electrical 
charge of the individual atoms whereby one set is positively 
charged and the other negatively. Here, force must be re- 
garded as a vehicle of energy : in motion, it is current and 
magnetism, under strain, charge and in vibration, light. 
Animal-light, peculiar to luminous fish, crustaceans and 
zoophytes may thus be explained, Photisms (glossary) are 
likewise explainable. 

6. Assuming the electronic theory to be correct (115), 

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o u m m a r y 

the atoms of matter constituting the organism are negatively 
and positively charged and that, if an electron is withdrawn 
from the atom the latter if left positively electrified. 

The organs exhibiting attraction and repulsion (156) 
conform to the law that, bodies charged with one kind of 
electricity repel those charged with the same kind, but at- 
tract those charged with the opposite kind. 

7. The organs are maintained in their normal position 
by an electromagnetic attractive force. If the latter is 
partially removed (186), the organs fall, and rise when 
supplied with any of the various forms of force, the most 
potential of all being the magnetic force. 

Color likewise influences the relative position of the or- 
gans as will be subsequently noted. 

8. My experiments with light and colors (127 and 194) 
seem to prove that, the so-called spectral-colors consist ob- 
jectively of very rapid transverse electromagnetic vibrations 
of the ether, ranging from approximately 400 millions of 
millions per second for red to 760 millions of millions for 
violet. This theory assumes that waves of light are not 
mere mechanical motions of the ether, but that they are 
undulations partly magnetic and partly electrical. In addi- 
tion to this accepted theory, I assume that colors represent 
different electrical charges. 

The visible spectrum of " white light" is only about one- 
tenth of the actual measurable solar spectrum. The sense 
of color is probably variations in the amount of energy. 
Thus, the energy necessary to produce the sensation of red 
must be 100,000 times as great as the energy necessary to 
produce the impression of green. 

Two spectral-colors producing by their mixture the 
sensation of white are known as complementary colors. 
They are as follows: 

203 



Progressive Spondylotherapy 

Red and green-blue; 

Golden yellow and blue: 

Blue, green and violet. 

It has been shown (153) that the positive or north 
pole or the south or negative pole of a magnet will, by in- 
creasing the tone of the stomach transform a tympanitic 
into a dull sound (reaction) but if the two poles are employed 
synchronously, the poles are neutralized and no dullness 
ensues. Like poles yield a reaction when presented in the 
same direction. 

When colors were used with the poles of a magnet, the 
following was observed: 

a. Yellow with the negative pole, no reaction; 
Yellow with the positive pole, a reaction; 

b. Green with negative pole, a reaction; 
Green with positive pole, no reaction; 

c. Violet with negative pole, a reaction; 
Violet with positive pole, no reaction ; 

d. Blue with negative pole, a reaction; 
Blue with positive pole, no reaction; 

e. Red gives a positive reaction with both poles. 
From the foregoing, one is constrained to conclude: 

Yellow is positively charged, whereas green, violet and blue 
are negatively charged and red, is both positively and nega- 
tively charged. 

We know that an intense white light (from an incandes- 
cent lamp) will produce stomach-dullness when directed on 
the gastric region (128). 

All of the complementary colors yield a positive reaction. 

When the positive pole of a magnet is directed toward 
the stomach, it yields a positive reaction, but, if the subject 
swallows 2 grains of medicinal methylene blue, there is no 
reaction. 

204 



b u m m a r y 

This latter experiment may aid us in elucidating the 
disputed photo-chemical theories of color-perception and 
may show that the retinal excitation of colors is dependent 
on positively or negatively charged electromagnetic vibra- 
tions. 

The gastrologist may utilize this method for determining 
many obscure problems. Thus, if a blue colored substance 
is ingested with the food, the duration of digestion (or the 
time when the food leaves the stomach) may be determined 
by the reappearance of stomach-dullness when the stomach 
is exposed to the flux of the positive pole of a magnet. 

My investigations suggest that, the position of the or- 
gans is influenced by color, and it is not improbable that, 
the red color of arterial blood and the blue color of venous 
blood were destined in part for the specific object of hasten- 
ing the circulation. 

The light of a red incandescent lamp over the heart and 
a blue lamp over the region of the liver causes the latter to 
ascend. By reversing the position of the lamps, the oppo- 
site condition ensues — the liver descends. 

8. The X-rays are not different from ordinary light when 
the physiological test suggested (148) is established as 
a criterion of action. Indeed, there are media impervious 
to the X-rays which permit of the penetration of light. 

9. The transmission of energy from one organism to 
another has been established (164). 

The energy developed in contracting a muscle demon- 
strates the same physiologic action as the energy generated by 
thought. The content of thought like color is probably 
dependent on the number of waves in a second of time or by 
the corresponding wave-length. Thus, we may speak of the 
physics of thought. 

It is within the range of probability that some means 

205 



Progressive S p o n d y I o t h e r a p y 

may be discovered for modifying the vibrations of the 
psychic force and thus establish the content of thought. 

10. The recognition of animal-force and the utilization 
of like forces suggests many possibilities in the realms of 
science, notably in the direction of elucidating many obscure 
problems in pathology. We may eventually define patho- 
logy as the physics of abnormal vibrations. By aid of 
appropriate vibrations we may restore the equipoise of the 
body by a rearrangement of the molecules or by raising 
their vibration to a normal standard of frequency. This 
action corresponds to tone-vibrations which set other 
bodies in motion. Thus, if the A-string of a violin is struck, 
the A-string of a piano standing near sounds in harmony 
with it. It is not improbable that investigations along 
lines here suggested will demonstrate that each organism 
has its normal standard of vibration and this will be modified 
by disease. In my limited observations, it was found that, 
the transition of the tympanitic sound to stomach-dullness 
in the norm was effected with tuning-forks with a vibration- 
number of 256. When the vibrations were very much above 
or below this standard the results were negative. By in- 
creasing the tone of the vagus (page 123), the stomach 
responds to higher or lower vibrations. In making the tests 
the tuning-fork is held in proximity to the stomach. 

Faith cures may be attributed to the creation of energy 
or the rearrangement of tissue-molecules by powerful 
emotions. Thus, we may speak of the physio-chemistry of 
cures. 

11. The dominant action attributed to the reflexes 
(5 and 40) in our mechanistic conception of the life-processes, 
is in accordance with our belief, that instinct is a mere 
expression of the various forms of force. The phenomena of 
the animal-body are vital demonstrations of chemistry and 

206 



Summary 

mechanics, and are as irresistible as the force which causes 
the magnet to attract iron filings. The bee constructs a 
perfect cell without a mathematical education and birds 
migrate without chart or compass.' 

12. In accepting the reaction of the stomach-muscula- 
ture as a basis for our varied deductions, we are employing 
bioplasmic matter (126), the most primitive and sensitive 
substance for exhibiting the phenomenon of vitality. The 
reaction manifested by increased tonicity is absolute, definite 
and easy of interpretation by a recognized method of ex- 
amination known as percussion. 

Other organs (notably, the heart) exhibit increased 
tonicity but the stomach is preferred for the reaction inso- 
much as any change in its sound is easier of interpretation. 

Contractions of the stomach may be easily demon- 
strated by aid of a manometer (Fig. 21) or a recording 
apparatus (Fig. 42). 

By aid of the gastrodiaphane, one may note a diminution 
in the area of the stomach-illumination by approaching 
the region of the stomach with an ordinary horseshoe mag- 
net. Transillumination in this way however, is too gross 
for recognizing the transmission of energy. 

Any electrical difference of potential (that is, difference 
in amount of positive or negative electricity) is indicated by 
the swing of the needle of the Galvanometer. 

To further prove the correctness of my observations, a 
stomach-tube converted into a non-polarisable electrode 
was introduced into the stomach and the hand of the sub- 
ject immersed in a salt-solution. Tube and vessel were con- 
nected with a very sensitive Galvanometer. 

When yellow light or a horseshoe magnet approached 
the stomach-region, the readings were invariably negative 
to the original electrical potential. 

207 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

Green light yielded no results but psychic energy through 
a red medium covering the head of another subject (page 
192), gave the same effects as the magnet and yellow light. 
The magnet caused the greatest deflection of the needle. 



208 



GLOSSARY 

Bioplasm. — Any living matter. Also known as proto- 
plasm, sarcode, biogen and cytoplasm. It always contains 
the following 12 essential elements; calcium, carbon, 
chlorin, hydrogen, iron, magnesium, nitrogen, oxygen, 
phosphorus, potassium, sodium and sulphur. 

Cremasteric reflex. — Drawing up of the scrotum and 
testicle when the skin on the inner side of the thigh is irri- 
tated. 

Electrolysis. — Decomposition of a salt, a chemical 
compound or certain tissues of the body by aid of electric- 
ity. The substances so decomposed are known as electro- 
lytes. 

Electrotaxis. — The reaction of protoplasm (animal 
or vegetable) to one or the other electric pole. Positive 
electrotaxis refers to the living body attracted toward the 
cathode (negative pole) or repelled from the anode (posi- 
tive pole). The reverse process is called negative electro- 
taxis. 

Ergograph. — An instrument used for recording the value 
of work done by muscular-contractions. 

The ergodynamograph records muscular-force in addi- 
tion to the value of the work effected by muscular-contrac- 
tions. 

Ether. — A highly tenuous medium filling all space as 
well as solids and liquids and supposed to be the vehicle 
for transmission of the various forms of force. 

Gastrodiaphane.— A small electric-light bulb intro- 
duced into the stomach. Examinations show transillumi- 
nation of the anterior wall of the organ. 

Heliotropism. — Also known as heliotaxis and a form of 

209 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 

phototaxis. Growth or movement toward (positive h.) or 
away from (negative h.) the sun or the sunlight. 

Ions. — Groups of atoms conveying charges of electricity. 
Ions charged with negative electricity (from the positive 
pole or anode) , are known as anions and those charged with 
positive electricity (at the negative pole or cathode), are 
called cations. 

Lodestone. — Iron ore attracting other pieces of iron. 
Specimens of lodestone are natural magnets. 

Metabolism. — A term employed to signify tissue-change 
and embraces the sum of the chemical changes subserv- 
ing the functions of nutrition. It includes constructive 
(anabolism) and destructive (catabolism) changes. 

Percussion. — An important method of diagnosis first 
employed by Auenbrugger, a Viennese physician in 1761, 
and appearing in his work, Inventum Novum. 

The basis of percussion consists of differentiating reso- 
nant from dull sounds. By its aid one can determine the 
density and tone of organs and define the situation of the 
latter. Resonant notes are produced over organs containing 
air whereas airless organs yield dull-notes. 

Photisms. — Subjective phenomena of luminosity. In- 
dividuals feel as though a dark-room became suddenly 
illuminated. Photisms have been coincident with many 
conversions. Saint Paul had a blinding heavenly vision. 

The observation that rays similar to the N-rays are given 
out from the body and detected by a fluorescent screen has 
never been confirmed and the same refers to the colored rays 
of Hooker. 

Polarized light — A change effected in a ray of light 
passing through certain medium (e. g., tourmaline) called 
a polariser. The transverse vibrations occur in only one 
plane in lieu of in all planes as in the ordinary ray of light . 

210 



G I o s s a r y 

Proteid. — Also known as protein. A group of sub- 
stances making up the greater part of animal and vegetable- 
tissues and formed chiefly by plants. 

Psychists. — Believers in psychic force or those engaged 
in psychical research. The term psychic is also used to 
designate an individual who is endowed with the power of 
communicating with spirits (spiritualistic medium) . Psych- 
ism as a doctrine refers to a universal soul animating all 
living beings, the difference in their actions being due to the 
difference of individual organizations. 

Reflexometer. — An instrument for measuring the 
force necessary to excite a reflex. 

Splanchnoptosis. — Also known as Glenard's disease 
and visceroptosis. Refers to an abnormal sinking down of 
the abdominal organs. 

Suggestion. — Implanting an idea in the mind of another 
person by some act or word on the part of the operator. 
This is tantamount to the artificial production of a certain 
psychic condition. Experimenters are frequently influenced 
by the same condition (auto-suggestion) and, in their state 
of expectant attention, they frequently perceive what they 
expect to perceive. 

Telekinesis.— An alleged spiritistic manifestation where- 
by movements of objects are effected without contact with 
the mover. 

Tympanitic. — Refers to the sound elicited by percus- 
sion over organs containing air (stomach and intestines). 
The pitch of a percussion note over the stomach depends 
chiefly upon the tension of its walls enclosing the air. When 
the tension of the walls is increased, a tympanitic is con- 
verted into a non-tympanitic or dull sound and the latter is 
again converted into a tympanitic note, when the walls of 
the stomach are relaxed. 

211 



BIBLIOGRAPHY 

i. Taylor. — Monthly Cyclopedia and Med. Bull., Feb. 
1911. 

2. Willard. — The Journal of Osteopathy, March, 191 2. 

3. Folin and Denis. — Jour. Biolog. Chem. Jan. XIII, 

No. 4. 

4. Franke. — Berl. Klin. W., Oct. 14, 1912. Brit. Med. J., 

Nov. 30, 1912. 

5. Chiari. — Verh. d. deutsch. path. Gesell., 1903, p. 137. 

6. Marchand. — Ibid., p. 197. 

7. Goldscheider. — Wien. Med. Klin., No. 12, 191 2. 

8. Gwathmey. — J. Am. Med. Ass., Dec. 17, 1901 and 

N. Y. Med. Jour., Sept. 14, 191 2. 

9. Einhorn. — Medical Record, Jan. 15, 1910. 

10. Ewart. — Brit. Med. Jour., Dec. 28, 1912. 

11. Moore. — J. A. M. A., Aug. 10, 1912. 

12. Peterson. — N. Y. Med. Rec, Dec. 31, 1892. 

13. King. — Medical Century, Sept., 19 10. 

14. Sellheim. — Jour. A. M. A., May 10, 1906. 

15. Bragg. — Nature, Dec. 12, 191 2. 

16. Abrams. — Medical Record, March 26, i< 

17. Dexter. — Weather Influences, 1904. 



212 



INDEX 



INDEX 



Abdominal supporters, 101. 

Accessorius, 10. 

Action currents, 165. 

Adrenalin, 8, 33, 34, 43. 

Algesimeter, 12. 

Amblyopia, 34, 109. 

Ampere's theory, 182. 

Amyl nitrite, 66. 

Anesthesia, scopolamin, 44. 

Anesthetics, 82. 

Aneurysms, 50, 55 et seq. 

Aneurysms, skiagrams of, 13, 14. 

Angina pectoris, 52. 

Animal electricity, 176. 

Animal force, 176, 202, 206. 

Animal tissues, 143. 

Aorta, abdominal, 58. 

Aorta, dilated, 44, 57. 

Aortitis, 56. 

Aortoptosis, 57. 

Appendicitis, 94, 97. 

Appendix, tenderness of, 28. 

Asthenopia, 109. 

Asthma, 12, 42, 43, 48, 56, 62, 93. 

Asthma, cardiac, 57. 

Atomic theory, 173. 

Atoms, 116. 

Atonic constipation, 11, 48. 

Atophan, 20. 

Autointoxication, 93. 

Automaton, 33. 

Autonomic system, 25. 



Backache, 17. 

Bibliography, 212. 

Bioplasm, 126. 

Bismuth meal, 93, 95. 

Bladder reflex, 108. 

Blood, after spleen reflexes, 108. 

Blood, coagulation of, 46, 62. 

Blood, in hyperthyroidism, 78. 

Blood, pressure of, 53. 

Bolometer, 118. 

Bose, investigations of, 179. 

Cachexia strumipriva, 71. 
Calcimeter, 46. 

Calcium, action on stomach, 130. 
Calcium, therapy, 45 et seq. 
Capillary dynamometer, 69. 
Capillaries, flushing of, 70. 
Cardiospasm, 80. 



Cecum, 95. 

Centrotherapy, 36. 

Cervical sympathetic, 76, 77. 

Cirrhosis of liver, 97. 

Clothing, 199. 

Cocain, 82. 

Coccygeal ganglion, 70. 

Coccygodynia, 2 2 . 

Colloids, 122. 

Color, 194, 203. 

Color, effect on reflexes, 128. 

Color, on tonicity of organs, 130. 

Color, and stomach dullness, 20 v 

Color, and psychic force, 191. 

Colon, carcinoma of, 94. 

Colon, intubation of, 90, 93 

Colonic stasis, 93. 

Complementary colors, 204. 

Concussor, 59. 

Concussion, spinal, 123. 

Consciousness, 174. 

Constipation, 10, 95. 

Contractures, 67. 

Cosmic influences, 198. 

Coughs, 104. 

Crymotherapy, 37. 



Demagnetization, 139, 160, 161, 187 

Depressor nerve, 55. 

De Puysegur, 134. 

Diagnosis, 6. 

Diamagnetism, 139. 

Diaphragm reflex, 14. 

Diaschisis, 24. 

Digestive apparatus, 80. 

Dolores vagi, 93. 

Drugs, 184. 

Duodenal-intubation, 85. 

Duodenal ulcer, 84. 94. 

Dysbasia angiosclerotica, 65. 

Dyschromatopsia, 34. 

Dysthyroidism, 72. 



Edema, 108. 
Electricity, 119, 202. 
Electricity, animal, 176. 
Electricity, and magnetism, 145. 
Electricity, and suggestion, 117, 
Electrons, 116. 
Electronic theory, 115, 202. 
Electronotherapy, 115, hq, 120. 



21* 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



Electro-optical phenomena, 158. 

Emotion, 30, 33, 159, 191. 

Endocarditis, 52. 

Energy, 115, 164, 178, 201, 205. 

Enterotoxism, 8^. 

Epilepsy, 65. 

Esophagus, 80. 

Esophagus, percussion of, 88. 

Exercises, 47. 

Exophthalmic goitre, 11, 36. 71 et seq. 

Eye, 20. 

Faith cures, 206. 

Fluoroscope, 57. 

Force, animal, 176, 202. 

Force, of heart, 187. 

Force, and matter, 115. 

Force, physics of, 113. 

Force, psychic, 188. 

Force, transmission of, 164, et seq. 

Force, vital, 178. 

Freezing, 39. 

Frog, 106, 149, 193. 

Gall-bladder, 98. 
Gangrene, family, 66. 
Gastric juice, 16. 
Gastrodiaphane, 207. 
Gauge, spondymobile, no. 
Gilbert, 132. 
Glaucoma, 109. 
Glossary, 209. 
Goitre, intrathoracic, 57. 
Gubler's method, 20. 
Gynecology, reflexes in, 100. 



Heberden's nodes, 21. 

Headaches, 46, 66. 

Heart, force of, 187. 

Heart, inspection of, 50. 

Heart, reflex, 51. 

Heart, tests for, 50. 

Heart, vago-visceral palpation of, 15, 5< 

Heat, 129. 

Heliotropism, 121. 

Hippocrates, 4. 

Hirschsprung's disease, 91. 

Hydrochloric acid, 84. 

Hyperemia test, 66. 

Hyperpiesis, 54. 

Hypertension, 54. 

Hyperthyroidism, 72. 

Hypotheses, 173. 

Hysteria, 184. 

Hysteria, diagnosis of, 29, et seq., 

Hysteria, pains of, 19. 



Ideas, 30. 
Ideopath, 30. 
Immortality, 201. 
Inhibition, reflex, 41. 
Instinct, 5. 

Intermittent limp, 65. 
Intubation, colonic, 90. 
Intubation, duodenal, 85. 
Intuitional acts, 15. 
Iodoform, 72. 
Iodothyrin, 72. 
Ions, 122. 

Kidneys, 187. 
Klemperer's test, 83. 



Lavage, transduodenal, 83. 
Life, 178, et seq. 
Light, 127, 202. 
Liver, cirrhosis of, 97. 
Locomotor ataxia, 104. 
Lodestone, 196. 
Lumbago, 19. 



Magnesium — perhydrol, 84. 
Magnetic force, and animal tissues, 143. 
Magnetic force, historical, 131, 135. 
Magnetic force, mechanical effects of, 

140. 
Magnetic force, and percussion, 150. 
Magnetic force, physics of, 138, et seq. 
Magnetic force, physiological physics 

of, 142, et seq. 
Magnetic force, and stomach-border, 

171. 
Magnetic force, and stomach-tone, 145 
Magnetic force, theory of, 139, 182. 
Magnetic force, and visceral tone, 145. 
Magnetic force, and voluntary muscles, 

155- 
Magnetism, personal, 195. 
Magnetism, theory of, 182. 
Magnetic rings etc., 200. 
Magnets, in diagnosis, 136. 
Mammary tumors, 103. 
McBurney's point, 28. 
Medulla oblongata, 104. 
Mesmer, 133. 
Metal, phenomena of, 179. 
Microbiology, 179. 
Monroe's point, 29. 
Morris's point, 29. 
Muscles, rigidity of, 13. 
Music, 196. 
Myocardial insufficiency, n, 50. 



216 



/ 



n 



d 



x 



Nerves, blocking of, 106. 
Nerves, stimulation of, 122. 
Nervi erigentes, 64. 
Neurasthenia, 18. 
Neuritis, 12. 

Neuroses, barometric, 198. 
Neuroses, traumatic, 185. 
Noise, 196. 



Odic force, 134. 
Orificial methods, 70. 
Osteoarthritis, 21. 
Osteopathy, 2. 
Ovary, prolapse of, 101. 



Pain, 17, 38, 46. 
Pain, peripheral, 105. 
Pain, points of tenderness, 2\ 
Pain, visceral, 25, 27. 
Pancreas, 98. 

Pancreas, tenderness of, 28. 
Pancreatic secretion, 9, 16. 
Paracelsus, 132. 
Paralysis, periodic, 66. 
Parathyroids, 71. 
Percussion, topographic, 184. 
Perkins, 134. 
Perspiration, 64. 
Pertussis, 103. 
Physiatrics, 117. 
Physiotherapeutics, 117. 
Pilocarpin, 34, 51. 
Pithiatism, 29. 
Pituitrin, 51. 
Plethysmograph, 69. 
Posture, faulty, 22. 
Precordium, 50. 
Protoplasm, 119. 
Psychic force, 188, et seq. 
Psychro therapy, 37, et seq. 
Pupil, 42, 77. 
Pylorospasm, 82. 
Pylorus, 16, 82, 88. 
Pyramidal tract, 41. 



Radium, 116, 125. 

Raynaud's disease, 67. 

Rectum, 95. 

Reflexes, 174. 

Reflex actions and life, 5. 

Reflex, explanation of, 121. 

Reflex, miscellaneous, 100, 121. 

Reflex, prolongation of, 182. 

Reflex, reinforcement of, 40, 44, 183. 



Reflex, scrotal, 8. 
Reflex, skin, 150. 
Reflex, stomach, 147. 
Reflexodiagnosis, 5. 
Reflexology, 1. 
Reflexophilic, 5. 
Reflexo therapy, 36, 127. 
Rheumatism, 19. 
Robson's point, 28. 
Rubber-bandage, 66. 



Sacralgia, 22. 

Sacro-iliac percussion, 96. 

Salpingitis, 29. 

Selenium, 174. 

Senses, unreliability of, 118. 

Sensibility, forms of, 12. 

Scopolamin anesthesia, 44. 

Sideroscope, 136. 

Sigmoid-flexure, 89. 

Solar rays, 128. 

Sorgo treatment, 128. 

Spinal cord, vessels of, 65. 

Spinal cord, concussion of, 123. 

Spinthariscope, 116. 

Splanchnic nerves, 9. 

Splanchnic neurasthenia, 13. 

Splanchnoptosis, 185, et seq. 

Splanchnoptosis, pelvic, 10 1. 

Spleen, functions of, 106. 

Spondylectrode, 96. 

Spondylopressor, 9, 34, 51, 74. 

Spondylotherapy, 1. 

Spondymobile gauge, no. 

Sthenometer, 193. 

Stomach, 81. 

Stomach, action of salt on, 130. 

Stomach, dorsal resonance of, 84. 

Stomach, percussion, 123, 145, 152, 

153, 163. 
Stomach, records of contractions, 167. 
Stomach, reflex, 146, 147. 
Stomach, ulcer, 128. 
Stretcher, 21. 
Suggestion, 31, 36, 117. 
Supporters, abdominal, 101. 
Sympathetic, cervical, 76. 
Sympathetic, demagnetization of, 162. 
Symptoms. 200. 



Tabes, 66. 

Tachycardia, 52, 75. 
Telekinesis, 193. 
Temperature, 168. 
Terrestrial magnetism, 140. 



217 



Progressive S p ondylotherapy 



Tetany, 71. 
Thought, 190. 
Thyroid extract, 77. 
Thyroid gland, 71. 
Thymus gland, 71. 
Thyrotoxicosis, 71. 
Tone, 8, 150, 162. 
Tonicity, 175. 
Tonometry, visceral, 6. 
Tractors, 134. 
Tuberculosis, 104. 
Tympanites, gastric, 84. 
Tympanitic, sound, 124, 147. 



Uric acid, 20. 
Uterine myomata, 73. 
Uterus, prolapse of, 101. 



Vasoconstriction, 67. 

Vasodilation, 67. 

Vasomotor mechanism, 62. 

Vasomotor neuroses, 62. 

Vertebrae, reaction to pain, 18. 

Vertebrae, tenderness of, 17. 

Verumontanum, 108. 

Vibration, 206. 

Visceral, attraction and repulsion, 156, 

184, 203. 
Viscera], demagnetization, 160. 
Visceral, disease and backache, 17. 
Visceral, muscle, 7. 
Visceral, pain, 25, 27. 
Visceral reflexes, 7. 
Visceral, tone, 8, 150. 
Visceral, tonometry, 6, 10. 
Vital-force, 178. 
Vomiting, of pregnancy, 84. 



Vagus, 10, 74, 75, 153, 161. 
Vagus, enervation of, 10. 
Vagus, visceral methods of, 14. 



X-rays, 125, 129, 158, 205. 



Wo 



